Community is essential. “Brotherhood” or “camaraderie” among First Responders is a sign of how much we rely on one another for support and connection. This bond is as essential for survival as it is for health, wellness, and recovery. Being bonded in brotherhood or sisterhood within our community can help us feel less alone. Sometimes, it can feel impossible to share feelings or ask for help from our community. This may be because many people who are struggling with trauma, drug or alcohol abuse may not be accustomed to sharing what is going on in their lives and may tend to withdraw into themselves.
The perceived stigma around addiction can also lead those who want help to remain silent. However, once we do open up, it can feel like a tremendous weight has been lifted from our shoulders because we are no longer bearing our burdens alone; a trusting community is there to help carry some of the weight.
Work Community
Being in a supportive environment is sometimes not enough. Sometimes finding the courage to ask for help can be made easier when someone creates an environment in which seeking help is encouraged; this can make a world of difference to someone in need. Some of this can be implemented through Peer Support at work. This creates an environment more conducive for sharing experiences and building coping skills and resilience. When there is an open space to respond to each other with empathy and constructive support, individuals feel valued and understood. It can also build stronger trust among peers, which is critical when they are in life-threatening situations together. This can allow more first responders to discover the resilience they can access through the help of others.
Establishing New, Healthy Relationships
A community can be found in various places, such as within the workplace, family, church, or school. In recovery, it is often best to also seek out the companionship of other sober individuals. Looking for a community that shares some of the same challenging experiences as you is a way to have continued support and insight during vulnerable times. Just as people within your workplace know the challenges you face as a First Responder, someone who has been through recovery may also have similar experiences that allow you to bond. Recovery is more than stopping the use of drugs or alcohol or overcoming trauma; it also means actively creating a healthier existence rather than defaulting back to old patterns and behaviors.
Social Life
It may feel impossible to imagine having active social lives again. The community you may have associated with beforehand may have had interactions and activities that revolved around substance use. Making adjustments to socializing while sober can be challenging but being around people who support your sobriety is key to long-term recovery. Social activities that support health and well-being in can include:
- Hiking
- Camping
- Sharing a meal
- Movie nights
- Playing sports
- Game nights
- Sober social events
Activities with a community of people who have had shared experiences can be a great way to have a vibrant social life. Your social life can be a healthy place to find a community that encourages you to be the best you can be, providing a sturdy foundation for the road ahead.
Finding these healthy, supportive communities within the workplace and among friends is essential. Although it can be daunting trying to find your place within a community, finding the courage to reach out and develop healthy relationships can be beneficial. Having people around that actively create a space that encourages being open and honest can help with accountability and resilience.
First responders and their families experience more acute stress and trauma than the general population, and the statistics are staggering. With years of experience serving First Responders, we have a distinctive view of their career and family life – from new recruit training, wellness visits, peer support services, counseling, crisis support, department training, and long-term treatment. We are here to help. To get in touch with First Responder Wellness, email info@frhealth.com or call 888.443.4898 to connect with our culturally competent team.
