Therapy is a joke
The aftermath of a natural disaster, such as Hurricane Katrina, brings with it a unique set of challenges, especially for first responders who face the chaos head-on. Nine days after Hurricane Katrina wreaked havoc, my partner and I found ourselves navigating the devastated landscape from Pascagoula, Mississippi, back to New Orleans. The journey, which would typically take two hours, had morphed into a 6 to 10-hour odyssey due to the destruction along I-10.
The scene was a stark reminder of the immense power of Mother Nature—twisted roadways, shattered bridges, boats displaced onto land, and cars tossed like toys. Amidst this destruction, we encountered a paramedic crew at a rest area, their weariness palpable. Little did I know, this encounter would shed light on the prevalent stigma surrounding mental health within the first responder community.
As a trauma therapist with years of experience, I've witnessed the evolution of attitudes toward mental health within the first responder community. Historically, seeking counseling was perceived as a sign of weakness, and the prevailing mindset urged responders to "suck it up" and swiftly move on to the next emergency. The culture fostered secrecy, creating a barrier between first responders and the broader society.
However, recent initiatives and programs are gradually breaking down this stigma. Brian Chopko, an associate professor at Kent State University, notes the increasing interest among researchers and mental health professionals in addressing the mental health needs of first responders. The shift is influenced, in part, by a growing awareness of the impact of stress on military veterans.
In my 25 years with the Delaware Critical Incident Stress Management team, I've witnessed a significant transformation in the first responder community's perception of mental health support. The journey can be divided into three phases: introduction and hesitation, questioning and inclusion, and finally, the "buy-in."
Despite progress, the challenge remains in encouraging first responders to engage with the mental health therapist community. While the burden shouldn't fall solely on the first responder community, therapists play a crucial role in building trust. Specialized training is essential, and therapists must avoid the pitfalls of "Trauma Tourism," where curiosity takes precedence over genuine support.
Building trust requires therapists to immerse themselves in the first responder culture without becoming a mere observer. Scheduling ride-alongs, visiting firehouses, or riding ambulances can provide valuable insights. Authenticity is key—first sessions are about building trust, and first responders may test therapists to gauge sincerity.
The therapist must steer clear of gimmicks and superficial techniques, as first responders can easily see through them. Instead, therapists should be genuine, present, and unafraid to be themselves. The initial skepticism and testing should not discourage therapists; consistency and authenticity will eventually foster a strong therapeutic relationship.
As we work towards a healthier relationship between first responders and mental health professionals, it's imperative to discard the practices of secrecy and shame. We must actively promote the use of mental health resources and provide outlets for first responders to navigate the emotional toll of their challenging roles. Breaking the stigma is a collaborative effort, and together, we can create a culture where seeking mental health support is not a sign of weakness but a testament to strength and resilience.
