Keywords: mental health, first responders, peer support, CISM, stress management, PTSD, compassion fatigue, emergency services, resilience, public safetytakeaways

• Mental health challenges are prevalent among first responders.
• Peer support and CISM are essential for emotional well-being.
• Stigma around mental health is decreasing but still present.
• Recognizing signs of distress is crucial for intervention.
• CISM provides structured support after critical incidents.
• Untreated stress can lead to severe mental health issues.
• Building resilience is key for first responders.
• Creating a supportive environment helps reduce stigma.
• Resources are available for mental health support.
• Getting involved in peer support can make a difference.

• The Weight We Carry: Mental Health in First Responders
• Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health Awareness

• "Building resilience is key for first responders."
• "Creating a supportive environment helps reduce stigma."
• "Resources are available for mental health support."

In this episode of The Weight We Carry podcast, host Bart Heaney speaks with Jeremy Meyer, a retired director of 911, about the often unseen mental health challenges faced by first responders. They discuss the importance of peer support and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) in addressing these challenges, the stigma surrounding mental health in public safety, and the need for ongoing education and resources. Jeremy shares his personal journey and insights on recognizing signs of distress, building resilience, and creating a supportive environment for first responders. The conversation emphasizes the critical need for mental health awareness and the role of peer support in fostering a healthier work culture.titles

Sound Bites

Chapters00:00Introduction to Public Safety and Peer Support03:27The Importance of Peer Support in 91106:33Understanding CISM and Peer Support09:36Stigma and Mental Health in First Responders12:28Stressors Faced by Dispatchers15:27The Need for Mental Health Support18:25Recognizing Signs of Distress21:31The Process of Seeking Peer Support40:26Empathy in Crisis Management45:36Understanding Critical Incident Stress Management48:38Long-Term Effects of Untreated Stress52:54Teaching Resilience and Coping Strategies56:42Seeking Help and Building Support Networks01:05:47Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health01:13:19Resources and Final Thoughts01:16:03The Weight We Carry.mp4

summaryIn this episode of the Weight We Carry Podcast, Bart Heaney speaks with Captain Norm Prycl from McCandless Franklin Park Emergency Medical Services Authority. Norm shares his journey in emergency services, discussing the challenges he faced as a young paramedic, the emotional toll of critical incidents, and the importance of mental health support for first responders. He emphasizes the need for a strong support system, coping mechanisms, and the necessity of mental health training in public safety. Norm's personal experiences highlight the weight that first responders carry and the importance of checking in on colleagues.titles

• The Weight We Carry: A First Responder's Journey
• Navigating Mental Health in Emergency Services

• "I've seen more than you'll ever see."
• "It's a lot easier to manage."
• "Check on everybody."

Sound BitesChapters00:00Introduction to Norm Prycel and His Journey03:43Norm's Early Life and Career Path06:41The Challenges of the Paramedic Program09:45Critical Incidents and Their Impact12:40The Emotional Toll of Public Safety Work15:44Recognizing Mental Health Struggles18:46The Importance of Support Systems21:48Coping Mechanisms and Hobbies25:38Passion for Dogs and Outdoor Adventures26:54The Importance of Asking for Help28:20Mental Health Support in Public Safety32:51Resources for Stress Management34:38Advice to Younger Self on Mental Challenges38:18Final Thoughts on Supporting First Responders45:25The Weight We Carry.mp4

summaryIn this episode of the Weight We Carry podcast, Bart Heaney interviews Court Gordon, a young firefighter and 911 dispatcher, who shares his unique journey through childhood challenges, including living in a homeless shelter, the loss of a close friend, and his mental health struggles. Court emphasizes the importance of therapy, support systems, and mentorship in navigating the complexities of life as a first responder. His story highlights resilience, personal growth, and the need for open conversations about mental health in the emergency services community. In this conversation, Court Gordon and Bart Heaney discuss the challenges faced by the younger generation in emergency services, the importance of support systems, and the critical role of communication in relationships. They delve into mental health awareness, the impact of bullying and social media, and the necessity of seeking help. Court shares personal experiences and emphasizes the need for open dialogue about mental health, especially among younger individuals entering the field.takeaways

• Court's journey into public safety began at a young age.
• Living in a homeless shelter shaped Court's perspective on life.
• Experiencing loss at a young age can have lasting effects.
• Therapy has been a crucial part of Court's mental health journey.
• Support from family and mentors can be life-saving.
• It's important to talk about mental health openly.
• Court believes everyone should experience hardship for perspective.
• Material possessions are insignificant compared to family and support.
• Young first responders often feel pressure to appear invincible.
• Community and mentorship are vital for new emergency service workers. We are the future generation and must support each other.
• Having a strong support system is crucial during tough times.
• Communication is key in relationships and mental health.
• It's important to break the stigma surrounding mental health.
• You should seek help even if you think you don't need it.
• The impact of bullying and social media on mental health is significant.
• You need to decompress from the pressures of emergency services.
• It's never too late to get help for mental health issues.
• Therapy can be beneficial for understanding and coping with challenges.
• You have to be patient with yourself during difficult times.

• Navigating Life's Challenges: Court Gordon's Story
• From Homelessness to Heroism: A First Responder's Journey

• "We're the future generation."
• "You can't let that get to you."
• "You need to decompress from it."

titlesSound BitesChapters00:00Introduction to Cort Gordon and His Journey05:30Childhood Challenges and Resilience13:39Navigating Life in a Homeless Shelter21:30The Impact of Loss and Mental Health33:28Finding Closure and Understanding36:25Reflections on Emergency Services and Personal Growth38:50The Importance of Open Conversations40:42Mentorship and Support in Emergency Services42:51The Role of Therapy in Mental Health47:22Understanding the Weight of the Job50:01The Role of Support Systems57:20Finding Balance in Emergency Services01:03:19Navigating the Transition from Pre-Hospital to Emergency Protocols01:05:13Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health in Emergency Services01:07:29The Impact of Bullying and Social Media on Youth Mental Health01:11:40The Importance of Seeking Help and Support01:19:05Advice to My Younger Self: Embracing Patience and Self-Compassion01:27:04The Weight We Carry.mp4