Training For Resilience: How Instructors Are Approaching First Responder Mental Health
First responders—firefighters, emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs)—often experience mental health issues due to the demanding and traumatic nature of their roles. Instructors now play a pivotal role in prioritizing first-responder mental-health training. Addressing mental health needs not only makes for better work/life balance for first responders, but also builds resilience, particularly within the EMS community, where even mere mention of mental health issues has carried an enormous stigma in the past.
In this article, we will explore how EMS and other public safety instructors can shape course curricula to adequately address mental and behavioral health challenges within their ranks.
The Growing Need for Mental Health Training Among First Responders
Integrating mental health strategies into first-responder training is not just important, it has become crucial. Recent research has uncovered the profound Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mental health challenges have negatively impacted overall performance and resilience.
Around 30 percent of first responders develop behavioral health conditions, according to a May 2018 report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA). This figure surpasses the general population’s rate of 20 percent. The SAMHSA report underscores the magnitude of the challenges faced by these professionals face day to day.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also exacerbated the already alarming mental health situation among EMTs, EMS professionals, and firefighters. The pandemic introduced interconnected challenges, with first responders exposed to the virus experiencing higher alcohol use and heightened symptoms of mental distress.
According to the SAMHSA report, aside from PTSD, potential mental health challenges include, but are not limited to, conditions such as:
- Depression
- Stress and burnout
- Anxiety
- Substance use or abuse
- Secondary trauma (also known as compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma)
- Suicidal behaviors
Teaching Strategies to Promote Mental Wellness and Resilience
Though preparing students for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exams is paramount, first-responder educators need to ensure students are ready for the emotional and mental health toll of working in the field.
Here are the best practices EMS and fire instructors can introduce:
1. Integrating emotional intelligence development into the curriculum
Integrate emotional intelligence development—including effective communication and relationship management—into the curriculum to enhance first responders' self-awareness and empathy. This enables them to better recognize and address mental health issues.
2. Simulating realistic scenarios
Simulate realistic scenarios or use VR training to practice mental health skills, helping first responders apply their training and strengthen their mental preparedness.
3. Providing stress management techniques
Teach stress-management techniques like mindfulness and relaxation exercises to equip first responders with coping skills that reduce stress, enhance focus, and improve overall well-being. Techniques include:
- Deep breathing exercises
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Guided imagery
- Mindful body scan
4. Offering a wealth of resources
Providing resources is important for any public safety instructor. These resources can include information on counseling services, employee assistance programs, and help lines to promote mental health resilience education for EMS and fire service professionals. Regularly remind responders of available support systems and encourage them to seek help when needed.
5. Incorporating self-reflection activities
Integrate self-reflection activities such as journaling or group discussions, empowering service providers to delve deeper into their emotions and thoughts. This facilitates the processing and overcoming of mental health challenges.
The Importance of Encouraging Self-Care Throughout Training
In addition to teaching mental health strategies, promoting self-care within the course curriculum is crucial for cultivating resilience among EMS personnel, EMTs, paramedics, and firefighters. To encourage and facilitate healthy behaviors, instructors can:
- Incorporate self-care units and modules,
- Offer comprehensive resources and materials on self-care,
- Promote adequate sleep and balanced nutrition,
- Incorporate regular breaks for self-care activities (e.g., stretching or deep breathing techniques),
- Emphasize the importance of building strong support networks and social connections.
Actively fostering a culture of self-care among first responders prioritizes mental health inside and outside of the classroom—empowering professionals to navigate the weight of their careers more effectively.
Amplifying Access to Resources and Support During the Holidays
First responders tend to experience increased stress during the holiday season due to the rise in emergency incidents—not to mention a significant increase in fire calls for fire personnel.
Fire instructors and EMS educators should prepare students both physically and mentally for this time of the year, emphasizing fire prevention and promoting mental well-being. Public Safety Group offers comprehensive training resources to equip departments and first responders with mental health support and fire behavior education.
Fostering a Supportive Environment for First Responders’ Mental Health Training
Improving resilience training for emergency responders requires more than just mental health resources and training. Instructors must also focus on creating a safe space for open discussion and support.
Here are three ways to foster a comfortable and uplifting environment for mental health training:
- Offer peer support programs: Connect first responders with trained peers who can provide support during times of emotional distress, reminding them that they have a network of individuals who understand their mental health challenges.
- Establish referral networks: Develop partnerships with mental illness professionals and organizations to improve first responder access to specialized mental health services when needed.
- Encourage open dialogue: Create an atmosphere where emergency service providers feel safe discussing their health concerns, symptoms, challenges, and experiences without fear of judgment.
Overcoming the Stigma of Seeking Mental Health Support
While progress has been made in open mental health discussions across industries, there is still a stigma in the first responder community surrounding seeking help. This leaves valuable professionals suffering silently without resources or support.
According to a survey from the University of Phoenix, 57 percent of first responders feared repercussions for seeking counseling, and 35 percent worried about being perceived as weak by colleagues or peers. By fostering an open and supportive environment, instructors ensure that service professionals can seek the care they need without fear of judgment or negative consequences.
Resources for More Effective and Engaging Learning Experiences
During disasters, EMTs, firefighters, and other service providers are the first ones on the scene, often taking a considerable toll on their mental health. Educators have a valuable opportunity to equip these professionals with the necessary skills to handle mental distress. And, high-quality resources play a pivotal role in providing comprehensive information and evidence-based strategies for improved health outcomes.
Public Safety Group offers essential EMS mental health training with two courses that directly meet this need: the Mental Health Resilience Officer Course and First Responder Support & Resilience. With years of experience in supporting fire, rescue, and EMS instructors by offering updated and engaging resources, PSG is committed to weaving mental health into practical instruction.
As a leading source of educational materials in the EMS and fire sector, PSG provides instructors with the tools to effectively address first responder mental health concerns and foster resilience within the community.
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