How First Responders Can Manage Holiday Stress

The holiday season can be a stressful time for many people, including first responders. The demands of the season, such as shopping for gifts and attending social events, can quickly become overwhelming. Fortunately, there are ways to manage holiday stress and cultivate a sense of gratitude.

One effective technique is to write down four things you are grateful for each day. This simple practice can help shift your focus away from negative thoughts and emotions, and towards the positive aspects of your life. Research has shown that gratitude journaling can reduce stress and improve overall well-being ¹.

In addition to gratitude journaling, there are other strategies that first responders can use to manage holiday stress. These include setting realistic expectations, prioritizing self-care, and practicing mindfulness. By taking care of yourself and focusing on the positive, you can enjoy the holiday season to the fullest.

It's important to recognize that the holiday season can be particularly challenging for first responders. In addition to the usual demands of the season, they may also be dealing with increased workloads and exposure to traumatic events. It's essential to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed.

If you're a first responder struggling with holiday stress, consider reaching out to a mental health professional or support group. Responder Health (responderhealth.com) is an organization that offer resources specifically for first responders and their families. Responder Health provides confidential and full-service solutions that support first responders through stress and traumatic events, and provide them with the education, resources, and community they need to live healthy, happy lives. Our peer advocate hotline (206)459-3020 offers a confidential 24-hour crisis referral service for all public safety employees, all emergency services personnel, and their family members nationwide ²³.

Remember, the holidays are a time to celebrate with loved ones and reflect on the good things in life. By cultivating a sense of gratitude and taking care of yourself, you can make this holiday season one to remember.

¹: [Verywell Mind](https://www.verywellmind.com/writing-in-a-gratitude-journal-for-stress-relief-3144887)

²: [Responder Health](https://responderhealth.com/)

³: [Safe Call Now](https://www.safecallnowusa.org/first-responders-medical-profession)

Source: Conversation with Bing, 11/21/2023

(1) Responder Health. https://responderhealth.com/.

(2) First Responders & Medical Professionals | Safe Call Now. https://www.safecallnowusa.org/first-responders-medical-profession.

(3) Meet Our Speakers - Responder Health. https://responderhealth.com/meet-our-speakers.

(4) Home | Safe Call Now. https://www.safecallnowusa.org/.

(5) Managing Holiday Stress as a First Responder - Cordico. https://www.cordico.com/2021/11/22/holiday-survival-a-first-responders-primer/.

(6) How to Handle Holiday Stress | Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-big-reframe/202212/how-handle-holiday-stress.

(7) HOLIDAY STRESS - Psychiatry.org. https://www.psychiatry.org/File%20Library/Unassigned/APA_Holiday-Stress_PPT-REPORT_November-2021_update.pdf.

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