Embracing Resilience Honoring Our First Responders During National Stress Awareness Month As the golden hues of the San Diego sunset give way to the tranquil blues of the Pacific, we are reminded of the ever-present contrast between calm and chaos. April marks National Stress Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the silent battles we face and the resilience we muster in the midst of life’s storms. For our first responders, the guardians of our city, stress is not just a fleeting visitor but a constant companion. Amidst the sirens and the urgency, they stand as pillars of strength, often placing the well-being of the community above their own. This month, we turn our focus to these brave souls, acknowledging their sacrifices and emphasizing the importance of mental health support in their lives. San Diego’s first responders are more than heroes in uniforms; they are fathers, mothers, siblings, and friends. They are the heartbeat of our city, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that their mental health is nurtured. National Stress Awareness Month serves as a beacon, guiding us towards a future where the conversation about stress and mental well-being is open and free from stigma. |
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NAMIWalks participants like you don't just walk the walk. You are the walk. NAMIWalks is about people who think nothing of giving everything - their time, their stories, their heartfelt dedication to the cause: Mental Health for All. Now it's your turn to step forward. To join our caring community or to welcome new friends. To accept the challenge and become the change through your commitment, togetherness, and laughter. To fuel mental health awareness, raise funds for NAMI's mission, and let people know they are not alone. Join us for the upcoming events: San Diego: Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Preble Field, NTC Park in Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Road, San Diego, CA 92106. Check-In & Wellness Expo begin at 7:00 AM, and NAMIWalks starts at 8:15 AM. Imperial Valley: Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Imperial Valley Mall, 3451 S Dogwood Road, El Centro, CA 92243. Check-In starts at 7:45 AM, and the Walk & Wellness Expo begin at 8:45 AM. Refer to the FAQ page for the full-day schedule.
For both events, check-in and T-shirt distribution begin at 7:00 AM. The Wellness Expo runs from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Warm-up exercises start at 7:45 AM, followed by the NAMIWalks Opening and Program at 8:00 AM, and the walk itself at 8:15 AM. The events conclude at 11:00 AM. For more information, contact Katie Lower, Walk Manager, at 858-723-8485 or email katielower@namisd.org. Let's walk together for mental health awareness and support! I Am the Steps you Take on the Path to Hope! |
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Honoring First Responders |
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First Responders and First Responder Families, please join us for a talk about “Honoring First Responders. ”In this video we discuss First Responder days, weeks and different ways to honor and promote First Responder wellness and resiliency! |
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Navigating decisions can be challenging for first responders, especially when they start doubting their choices in critical moments. This uncertainty can lead to feelings of regret and self-doubt. However, there are strategies to help first responders feel more confident and avoid being swayed by hindsight bias. Firstly, it's essential for First Responders to balance facts with their instincts and emotions when gathering information. Consulting |
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with experienced colleagues or experts in the field can provide valuable perspectives, but it's important to recognize that even experts have their biases. Secondly, when faced with unexpected challenges or setbacks, such as difficult rescue missions or medical emergencies, First Responders should view these obstacles as opportunities for learning and growth. Trusting in their training and instincts, and seeing each experience as a chance to improve, can help build resilience and confidence in decision-making. By believing in their abilities to make sound judgments under pressure and learning from each situation, they can overcome the negative effects of hindsight bias and continue to serve their communities effectively. Learn more here |
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In this TED talk, Emily Esfahani Smith discusses the difference between happiness and meaning in life. She identifies four pillars of a meaningful life: belonging, purpose, transcendence, and storytelling. These pillars provide a sense of fulfillment beyond fleeting happiness. |
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In the "Women in Public Safety" talk, Shelby addresses challenges women face in public safety, emphasizing mental health support and self-care. The video encourages seeking help and highlights resilience and support networks for female First Responders. It also notes positive shifts in agency culture towards inclusivity and offers advice for women considering a career in public safety. |
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First Responder Suicide Prevention Training |
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San Diego County Suicide Prevention Council, in collaboration with Fire Captain Ryan J. Mitchell's First Responders Behavioral Health Support Program, is hosting a First |
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Responder Suicide Prevention Training. This free, 1-hour training helps prepare First Responders to prevent suicide by raising awareness about factors of suicide, learning conversation tools for suicide prevention, discussing resources, understanding factors of suicide, and identifying how to appropriately respond. Who should attend? Those who represent the First Responder population including Law Enforcement, Fire Departments, EMS, Dispatch, Lifeguard, CERT, or other emergency response communities. |
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Group Presentation: Reducing Stigma |
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Resiliency is a top priority in the First Responder community. First Responders are at a greater risk for experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety due to repeated exposure to trauma. Many First Responders are hesitant to seek help because of the stigma surrounding mental health. Our staff provides county-funded in-person & Zoom presentations to educate First Responders about stigma, resiliency & wellness, |
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recognize its impact, and provide tools to reduce stigma and promote wellness within the First Responder community. Our team is working to promote prevention and support First Responders – creating custom presentations to meet department needs. Contact us today to request an in-person or Zoom presentation. For more information, please visit us at: www.sdfirstrespondersprogram.org 1-833-YU-FIRST (1-833-983-4778) |
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This program is funded by the County of San Diego/HHSA |
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