Teeniors®’s Post

Fire, police, EMS, and military families endure many stressors unheard of in the ‘typical’ family. First responders deal with work stressors, wives struggle with absent husbands, and kids pick up on the stress of both parents. That is why it is so important that first responders have specialized heath care providers that understand the stress of the job, and can support your body and mind so you can focus on the people who matter most to you. FIREPROOF Wellness exists to give you more moments that count. We do that by optimizing your testosterone, supporting better sleep, being proactive about the exposures you face… So you can have more energy, more focus, more connection, and less risk. So you can Be FIREPROOF. Join us in this amazing journey of life lived well. https://lnkd.in/ey8ZaFHw #firefighter #firefighters  #fitfirefighters #firstresponder #firefighterhealth #Firefighterfamilies #firefighterdetox #fireproofwellness

I am both a former First Responder AND a Veteran. So what I am about to say comes from the heart: 1. I LOVE that there is an organization (the VA) which provides for the health of our nation's Veterans (we can discuss efficacy and ease of use at a different time). 2. I really wish there was an organization that provided for the health of our nation's First Responders (Police, Fire, EMS, Dispatch, Medical) at scale as well. We absolutely should keep supporting our Veterans. But we should also look at how we can better support our First Responders. PTSD and Trauma are talked about, at scale, for Veterans. I would argue that there is just as much, if not more, PTSD and Trauma in our nation's First Responders. I started a non-profit to help First Responders and Veterans who are facing financial hardships called Second Responder Inc. I would be honored if you signed up to be a giver over at http://besecond.org so we can help our First Responders and Veterans when they need us to return the favor.

Although most of us are out there celebrating, Let’s take the time to remember that “those who have gone through a trauma that included explosions, gunfire, loud noises or fire may be more likely to find fireworks to be a reminder—a trigger or cue—of such past events.” (PTSD: National Center for PTSD) Fireworks are loud, with bright flashes of light, creating smoke and burning smells. There are often crowds gathered to watch displays, and loud music may be typical. Any of these sounds, sights or smells may serve as trauma reminders. For Veterans, fireworks may cue memories of combat or explosions; and certain military-related celebrations may also raise distress. For others, fireworks may be reminders of intense fires or gun violence. (PTSD: National Center for PTSD) PLEASE BE COURTEOUS WITH FIREWORKS - BE CONSCIOUS AND RESPECTFUL OF VETERANS THPTSD.ORG

Do you experience intrusive thoughts, images and flashback, feelings of guilt, shame and blame, a sense of being on edge and need to avoid?  As a member of the military, veteran or emergency service worker you are more likely to be exposed to distressing or disturbing experiences.  These experiences may include; dealing with injury or death, combat, harassment, hierarchical pressure and moral Injury. Our brain, like a piece of machinery can on occasions ‘malfunction’. When this happens our usual means of processing experiences can stop, meaning memories become stuck. Unprocessed or stuck memories can cause distress. EMDR will help you process these memories, reducing the distress attached to them. If you have any of these experiences, we are here for you so get in touch and see how EMDR can benefit you 💛 #optimism_therapy_services #veteranexperience #combatveteran #veteranwomen #veterancommunity #militarymentalhealth #militarymenandwomen #emergencyserviceworkers #emergencyworkers #distressingexperiences #distressingexperiencetreatment #emdr #emdrtreatment #eyemovementdesensitizationandreprocessing #eyemovementtherapy #anxietydisordertreatment #posttraumaticstress #ptsd #therapysupport #experiencedtherapist #hereformilitaryfamilies #hereformilitaryhereos

It's not up to first responders and vets to translate their service to make it easy to hear. It's up to family, friends, and counselors to learn the language and culture of those who run toward danger. Want to know what it was like in their military service, in their warzone experience? Try a few of these questions. What was the name of your base? Where’d you go on R & R? Do you have photos? Can we map that? Who were your buddies? Where and what did you eat? Did you go outside the wire? How often did you go on missions? What was your best mission? https://loom.ly/AAsRM7o

As a nation, we honor our veterans for their bravery and sacrifice. Yet, for some who have returned from combat with deep, invisible wounds like PTSD, the story takes a tragic turn. Many of these veterans, once hailed as heroes, now find themselves on death row, condemned for crimes committed under the weight of their service-related trauma. Over 300 veterans are currently on death row, and many others have already been executed. Despite their service and the profound impact of PTSD, the justice system often fails to fully consider these factors during their trials. Defense attorneys may overlook critical evidence, and prosecutors and judges often dismiss the mental scars left by war. This isn't just a call for justice—it's a call for compassion and understanding. We must ask ourselves: How can we honor those who served while also holding them accountable in a way that acknowledges the heavy burden they carry? The intersection of mental health, military service, and capital punishment demands our urgent attention. It's time to scrutinize the use of the death penalty, especially for those who have sacrificed so much for their country. #AKInvestigations #Veterans #DeathPenalty #PTSD #CriminalJusticeReform #MentalHealthAwareness #JusticeForVeterans #CapitalPunishment #HumanRights

Discover how service dogs provide a vital sense of security for veterans battling PTSD. These loyal companions help turn fear into confidence and anxiety into peace. Learn more in our latest blog post. https://lnkd.in/e8CJNy9H #PTSD #Veterans #ServiceDogs #MentalHealth #PTSDAwarenessMonth

HOPE for ALL In the realm of law enforcement, where resilience and fortitude are often lauded, there exists a silent struggle that remains largely unseen: the battle for mental well-being. As a Chief of Police, I've borne witness to the toll that the relentless demands of the job can exact upon the minds and spirits of those who stand on the front lines. While physical prowess and tactical acumen are undeniably crucial, the importance of mental health cannot be overstated. It serves as the cornerstone upon which the longevity and effectiveness of our first responders rest. Gone are the days of "toughen up" or "it doesn't bother me so it shouldn't bother you." We must guide our new members towards practices that promote longevity and eschew the outdated notion of battling evils alone. The nature of our profession exposes us to a myriad of traumas, from witnessing violent crimes to enduring the loss of colleagues in the line of duty, and even childhood experiences. Over time, these experiences can accumulate, leaving indelible scars on the psyche. Yet, all too often, the culture within law enforcement discourages vulnerability and emotional expression, perpetuating the misconception that seeking help is a sign of weakness. This stigma must be dismantled and replaced with a culture that prioritizes mental well-being as fervently as physical fitness. Recognizing the critical need for comprehensive support systems, initiatives like The Mighty Oaks Foundation emerge as beacons of hope for first responders grappling with the burdens of trauma and stress. They equip individuals with the tools necessary to confront their inner battles with courage and resilience, through intensive peer-based programs that incorporate instructional sessions, camaraderie, and team-building activities designed to challenge our Warriors to overcome their past experiences and move forward into a life of purpose. However, it is imperative to acknowledge that no one should have to shoulder this burden alone. Leaders and command staff must proactively implement policies and resources that foster a culture of mental health awareness and support. This includes investing in ongoing training for recognizing signs of distress, establishing confidential services, and promoting open dialogue surrounding mental well-being. By destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting proactive self-care, we can cultivate a more resilient and effective community. Ultimately, the well-being of our first responders is not only a moral imperative but also essential to the safety and security of our communities. Just as we equip officers with protective gear and tactical training, we must also arm them with the tools to safeguard their mental and emotional health. Together, through collective effort and unwavering commitment, we can ensure that our brave men and women in uniform not only survive but thrive in their noble calling, anchored by the steadfast beacon of HOPE.

06/29/24 July 4th The 4th of July-Independence Day-is soon upon us. Food, Family, FIREWORKS Fireworks-SUDDEN LOUD NOISES- cause PROBLEMS for animals, Many VETERANS, Folks with PTSD/Hearing/Anxiety/Panic issues. Animals will panic at sudden loud noises. Run, hide under tables, start shaking, so on. Many Combat VETERANS react to fireworks. To them it sounds like gun fire thus placing them in their minds back into combat. They may react violently without knowing they are doing it. Shakes, Panicking, , so on, jerking, jumping. Folks with PTSD/Hearing/Anxiety/Panic issues will also react in various ways. PLEASE support these People & Animals as they deal with this. Understand where they are coming from. Don't judge them for what they have minimal if any control over. Remain calm, speak in soft tones, make no sudden movements near them. At all times think about their safety & yours. DO NOT get Law Enforcement Involved unless it is the LAST option available. DO NOT Use Law Enforcement as the first. Tends to make things far worst for all involved. Have a safe, enjoyable Holiday with those you love & care about. Chef M. Hunter King Combat Veteran Buddy-Retired US ARMY Bomb Dog- says "here's Looking at You"

Eradicating Isolation and loneliness aren’t just my passion, this grand challenge is my mission. Highlighting the challenges that come from isolation I see it time and time again, substance is no substitute, but it sure has taken a front row in our culture, while this is nothing new, the impact post-pandemic is gravely impacting the backbone of our military, the military spouse. This is why it is so essential to understand mental, physical and social health in military families, and provide resources to match. This is why I find Kasley Killam, MPH work so infatuating, her research and advocacy for social health it is the link between thriving and surviving as a contemporary military family. Social Health! I imagine a world where alcoholic beverages were not the focus of spouse club events, and where fellowship and genuine interactions took place with out the support of intoxicating beverages. Call me a dreamer. Thank you Jennifer Barnhill, MPA, appreciate the very candid article, hopefully a segway to more conversations, and more spouses realizing the impact of isolation and loneliness. InDependent | Military Spouse Wellness Matters and Evie King, please keep these conversations going! #socialhealth #mentalhealth #grandchallenge #soberlife