First Responder Series: Firefighters & Mental Health
My guest today is Kevin Shea, a firefighter and paramedic. He comes today to share his mental health story that relates to his own personal journey but makes a much broader stroke in being relevant to the entire first responder community and how they need to manage their mental health in a unique way that honors the challenges and dynamics of their profession. Kevin highlights the benefit of higher level of care, medication support, not sitting in isolation, and learning how to do the daunting task of focusing your positive energy and that helping vibe towards yourself to prioritize your own healing and recovery. I am honored to share space with his honesty, vulnerability and insight for this poignant conversation!
(00:00) The Journey to Seeking Help
(02:58) Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health
(05:27) Childhood Influences on Mental Health
(08:37) The Impact of First Responder Work
(11:12) Therapeutic Approaches and Experiences
(13:38) Coping with PTSD and Anxiety
(16:46) The Importance of Community and Support
(19:16) Firefighters: Center of Excellence Residential Care
(21:46) Finding Peace and Self-Discovery
(38:52) Navigating Mental Health Treatments
(41:14) Personal Medication Journeys
(46:42) Building a Daily Anxiety Plan
(49:22) Inner Child Work and Self-Care
(55:09) The Importance of Peer Support
(01:00:37) Creating Supportive Environments
(01:06:14) Facing Fears and Shifting Perspectives
IAFF Center of Excellence - Rehab & Treatment for Fire Fighters
Bluecoats
OAPFF – Ohio Association of Professional Firefighters
Thanks for listening! Therapist Caise
Find Me: caiserodemchale.com
Reach Me: therapistcaise@gmail.com
Follow Me: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn & Youtube
"Capturing Stories & Inspiring Recovery!"
For Mental Health emergencies please go to your nearest Emergency Room or dial 911 or 988 on your phone. Mobile Crisis can also be helpful: Text 4hope to 741741.
Disclaimer: The Mental Health Spotlight Podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not meant to replace mental health or other professional health care services. Mental health treatment and recovery requires assessment by a mental health professional. Please consult with your care providers before engaging in new methods of care. The use of information provided in this podcast is at the user’s own risk.
Thanks for listening! Therapist Caise
Find Me: caiserodemchale.com
Reach Me: therapistcaise@gmail.com
Follow Me: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn & Youtube
"Capturing Stories & Inspiring Recovery!"
For Mental Health emergencies please go to your nearest Emergency Room or dial 911 or 988 on your phone. Mobile Crisis can also be helpful: Text 4hope to 741741.
Disclaimer: The Mental Health Spotlight Podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not meant to replace mental health or other professional health care services. Mental health treatment and recovery requires assessment by a mental health professional. Please consult with your care providers before engaging in new methods of care. The use of information provided in this podcast is at the user’s own risk.
