What do you do if you're a professional in Emergency Management and need support managing stress and trauma?

It is crucial to prioritize self-care and seek appropriate resources. Consider reaching out to colleagues or supervisors for support and guidance, as they may offer valuable insights or connect you with relevant support services. Additionally, explore available mental health resources such as counseling, therapy, or support groups tailored to emergency management professionals. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, exercise, and relaxation exercises to help cope with the challenges of the job. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and addressing your mental health needs is essential for your well-being and effectiveness in your role.

Be familiar with the signs take care of yourself so you can effectively take care if others. It is natural to experience stress during a disaster or traumatic event. Look for these signs of stress in yourself, and members of your family and community: Feelings of stress, grief, fear, or anger. Struggle to carry out routine activities after a disaster and lack of interest in activities.

As a professional in emergency management, it's crucial to recognize the signs of stress and trauma early on. Look out for changes in your behavior, such as insomnia, irritability, or withdrawal from social activities. These signs may indicate that you need support before the situation worsens.

As an Emergency Management professional, I prioritize self-care. I connect with peers for support, utilize mental health resources, engage in physical activities, and practice mindfulness techniques to manage stress and trauma effectively.

The body needs more self-care in situations like these, not less. Invest in yourself, and pay extra attention to your sleep, diet, and fitness. This self-care regimen is what's going to save you — and prevent you from making further costly mistakes during a trying time. Everyone faces crises.

I personally find practicing mindfulness helpful. Our organization tries to implement mindfulness in group settings, but it feels forced and being vulnerable in the company of colleagues is not something everyone is willing to do.

Self-care is not an option but a necessity, especially for professionals in emergency management. Take regular time for yourself to rest and recharge. This can involve engaging in hobbies, meditation, or simply taking a walk in nature. By taking care of your own well-being, you'll be better able to help others.

.In 2021, Governor Mike Parson signed into law Senate Bill 57 and House Bill 8, which directed DPS to establish a Critical Incident Stress Management Program and provide services to first responders to assist in coping with stress and potential psychological trauma resulting from responses to critical incidents.

It's important to recognize that it's okay to ask for help. Whether through conversations with colleagues, family members, or professional therapists, seek support when you need it. Sometimes, talking to someone who can relate to your experiences and help you develop new coping strategies can be helpful.

One thing that I've found helpful is speaking with peers either during or right after an incident. Having perspective from someone who is either there or familiar with the type of work helps to relate the feelings I'm experiencing. There are peer groups, state resources, and typically EAPs in place. Speaking with a clergy member also can help with trying to understand or at least process what you're going through. Non-judgmental ears help.

Here's is a example ComPsych is the pioneer and world's largest provider of mental health services, servicing more than 78,000 organizations and 163 million individuals throughout the U.S. and 200 countries. Our GuidanceResources® platform fully integrates EAP, behavioral health, wellness and absence management services

Spend time in prayer with The Lord, asking Him to lead and guide you in your work. He is "The Absolute Best" resource. No one can relieve your stress, trauma, counseling and whatever you need help with the way He can.

As a professional in emergency management, you may have access to resources that can help you cope with stress and trauma. Make full use of these resources, whether through training, workshops, or employee assistance programs. Familiarize yourself with the available options and actively utilize them.

Finding an experienced mentor means they may have overcame many of the challenges you’re facing now. They will very likely be able to share ideas on things like handling inter-team conflicts, motivating your team in a crisis, turning around underperformers, and many other similar issues you face as a leader. They will be able to share real-life examples from their own career and those of their friends that are relevant to your situation. Because they’re further in their career, they can give you the gift of foresight as you chart a path in your career

Finding a mentor who has experience in dealing with stress and trauma can be extremely valuable. A mentor can provide not only practical advice but also serve as an emotional supporter. Look for individuals who have gone through similar challenges and from whom you can learn.

EMI GOES SOCIAL Emergency Management Institute Goes Social FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute (EMI) has social media accounts to better share information on training opportunities and course offerings and in a timely manner. The accounts provide platforms for trusted networking opportunities that the emergency management community could use both on and off campus. Students and emergency management professionals also will be able to engage in a dialogue to share information related to the training they receive through EMI. Follow and participate with EMI on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. ALSO Independant Study Course its great from experience they have many different courses that are free.

The dynamics of stress and trauma are constantly evolving, so lifelong learning is essential. Stay updated on new insights and best practices, whether through continuing education, professional literature, or training sessions. The more you know about stress management and trauma recovery, the better equipped you'll be to support yourself and others.

One thing must be known is how difficult it is to ask for help. The higher up the system, the less support you have as everyone is relying on you. Currently a therapist is working with me on me. As a Emergency professional in a small city where you have been working non stop for years you build bad habits. The two most prominent problems pointed out is SELF CARE. Taking time to look after yourself, your need to be able to switch off from everything work related. Secondly is BOUNDARIES. Boundaries need to be defined and enforced. They must be part of your routine. When you knock off... You knock off all contact with work. Redirect calls if needed. Have an SMS that says "in an emergency please call ###." or not available

What services are provided by your agency, organization, employer, and / or medical insurance. Here, is where YOU find out if the entity you are working at considers you as an asset, not just a number. There is nothing more important than the personal health of the emergency responder. Having a mentally, physically, or spiritually damaged person does no one any good during critical incidents and I would go so far as saying that individual is detrimental to the response capability of the team. You are the best advocate for you! Do not wait until a situation goes sideways to recognize the need for help. Seek training, education, and medical assistance before the fight to ensure uncompromised success.

Do the impossible: Find the organization that believes in taking care of their people. I had an incident that at minimum, could have gone from acute stress to PTSD. Sitting on the hood of my patrol car with my sergeant in the dark parking lot of a closed business, he walked me through the incident. He talked about my training, my past experiences, and all the actions that led up to that night. At the end of the conversation he shook my hand and let me know everything was going to be alright but if I wasn't feeling alright, he would be right beside me to help me.

In addition to the points mentioned above, there are other aspects that are important in dealing with stress and trauma. These include nurturing a strong social network, incorporating physical activity into your routine, and creating a balanced work-life approach. By considering these additional aspects, you can strengthen your resilience and stay healthy in the long term.