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When The Ringing Doesn't Stop: If You are a First Responder and Have This- You May Have PTSD
You’re off shift. The house is quiet. But the high-pitched ringing in your ears is loud as ever. There’s no noise, just silence and a...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Jun 233 min read


How to Recognize the Onset of PTSD in Firefighters, EMTs, and Dispatchers — Through Their Thoughts
By Chap. Tom Freborg Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is well documented in first responders — but it doesn’t always start with...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Jun 63 min read


What Happens in a Firefighter’s Brain During a Traumatic Call — And How We Can Help
What Happens in the Brain During a Traumatic Call? When a firefighter arrives at a traumatic scene, their brain and body launch into...

Chap. Tom Freborg
May 22 min read


The War Within: Understanding and Managing Anger in First Responders with PTSD
For firefighters, EMTs, and dispatchers, the job comes with immense pressure, unimaginable sights, and the burden of responsibility for...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Apr 73 min read


Let Your Hands Be Your Measure: Understanding Stress Through Skin Temperature
As firefighters, EMTs, and dispatchers, you operate in high-stress environments where quick decision-making is crucial. An...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Mar 312 min read


Addiction and Alcoholism in the Fire Service: A Problem No One Talks About
The fire service is built on courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others. But behind the curtain, a darker...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Mar 233 min read


PTSD in Firefighters, EMTs, and Dispatchers: Recognizing the Signs
First responders—firefighters, EMTs, and dispatchers—are the backbone of emergency response. But with that immense responsibility comes...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Mar 194 min read


The Silent Epidemic: Suicide Among Firefighters and EMTs
Firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are often characterized as being resilient, tough, and fearless. Yet, beneath the...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Mar 145 min read


The Silent Spiritual Battle
First responders—firefighters, paramedics, police officers, dispatchers—are the hands and feet of courage in our communities. They run...

Dr. Lee Kachner
Mar 112 min read


Smoke, Stress, and Splitsville: The Firefighter's Divorce Dilemma
Firefighters and EMTs face an uphill struggle when it comes to maintaining a healthy marriage. Already, you are batting from a handicap...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Mar 105 min read


My Take on Coping with the Adrenaline Rush as a Firefighter or EMT
If you’re a firefighter or EMT, you know the drill: the call comes in, your heart starts pounding, and before you can even think, you’re...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Mar 63 min read


Our Heroes and Their Hidden Battles: Supporting First Responders' Mental Health
Our first responders – firefighters, police officers, paramedics – they are the shield that stands between us and chaos. They witness...

Dr. Lee Kachner
Mar 52 min read


Energy Drinks: Why Firefighters and EMTs Should Steer Clear
As firefighters and EMTs, you live high-stakes, high-stress lives. Long shifts, unpredictable emergencies, and the constant need to stay...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Mar 34 min read


The Vital Role of Spiritual Care in Healing PTSD Among Our EMS Heroes
The reality of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among our dedicated Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers is a serious concern....

Dr. Lee Kachner
Mar 12 min read


In The Darkness, A Glimmer of Hope: A Firefighter's Story Of Survival and Support
It was a Tuesday afternoon, and I was having a really tough day. When I say a tough day, I mean that the darkness was overtaking me. And...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Feb 263 min read


Healing to Be Whole: Understanding the Three Components of Healing in PTSD for Firefighters
“This is the best job in the world!” A fire instructor spoke this to me on a hot, hazy afternoon with a confident enthusiasm. He was a...

Chap. Tom Freborg
Feb 244 min read


Understanding EMDR Therapy: A Firefighter's Starter Guide to Healing from PTSD
As a firefighter dealing with PTSD, you've likely experienced events that have left lasting impacts on your mental health. Eye Movement...

Dr. Lee Kachner
Feb 222 min read
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