By the nature of the job, firefighters encounter a variety of challenging and perilous circumstances on a daily basis. Their continuous exposure to traumatic incidents of violent fires and witnessing serious injuries to casualties amidst rescuing endeavors often have a major impact on their mental health resulting in PTSD. According to John Rose Oak Bluff in coping with PTSD, the family members of the firefighter can play a major role. To explore the strategic steps that family members can undertake to help their loved one, keep reading
Understanding PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) refers to an anxiety disorder that might develop in individuals after having experienced traumatic incidents or witnessing frightening and shocking events. Some of the common symptoms of PTSD include intrusive memories, nightmares, flashbacks, mood swings, negative thinking, heightened arousal, and more.
Spotting the Signs and Symptoms
Families of firefighters need to be aware of the symptoms of PTSD, which is the first step to giving timely support. PTSD symptoms may manifest in different forms such as mood swings, irritability, difficulty sleeping, keeping aside from social activities, and so on. By spotting such symptoms at the primary stage, families can be involved to cater the needed support to their loving family members.
Promoting a Supportive Environment
Home is the first place that can create a supporting environment which is vital for firefighters struggling with PTSD. It may involve encouraging open communication, actively and compassionately listening to their concerns and experiences, and showing empathy, love, and compassion. As per John Rose Oak Bluff, that family should soothe firefighters for seeking assistance from peers and professionals considering it does not exhibit weakness however can be a proactive way for healing.
Encouraging Getting Professional Help
Family members need to conduct research, speak to qualified counselors or mental health practitioners, and encourage the firefighter to get specialist treatment. Moreover, they need to accompany their loved family member to visit the doctor and get involved in the therapy sessions for encouragement and also speak to the doctor about the problems experienced by the professional
Involving in Stress-Reducing Workouts Together
Engaging in stress-relieving workouts together is a great idea for families to lend a hand of support to firefighters with PTSD. Some of the practices include, yoga, meditation, as well as spending time amid nature can alleviate stress levels while relaxing the mind. This kind of joint participation in activities can also strengthen bonds and provide emotional support.
Encouraging Healthy Lifestyle
Promoting a healthy lifestyle is vital to deal with PTSD symptoms. Families should encourage firefighters to participate in regular workouts, have balanced diets, restrict caffeine and alcohol intake, and meditate before going to bed which relaxes the mind and helps in quality sleeping. Bringing in lifestyle changes can be instrumental in helping alleviate many symptoms linked with PTSD.
Bottom-line
Apart from these, families need to educate them about coping techniques and treatment options to lessen the effects of PTSD on their loved ones. By maintaining patience, compassion, and unwavering support, families can contribute a lot to the recovery and mental health well-being of firefighters with PTSD.