Personal Steps Toward Recovery
Experiencing physical and mental distress from service is a normal reaction to the abnormal situations we face from duty. At times, our attempts to recover may feel fruitless, leaving us exhausted and struggling to invite changes into our lives. Even if we recognize that our current state is unacceptable, breaking from familiar, yet unhealthy patterns can seem like a permanent obstacle.
This is why initiating and committing to change is often the most difficult part. During my service as a Combat Engineer, we used to say that the patrol or recce thousands of steps long took the first foot forward – and plenty of bitching and complaining. Rather than taking massive leaps forward, we can focus on small, actionable steps towards better health – both physically and mentally.
Understanding the interconnectedness of these areas reinforces the need for practices that promote overall well-being, such as improving our diet and prioritizing regular exercise. Striving for improvement in the areas that matter most requires a willingness to act. Questions like how do I want to see myself, or what is truly important in my life can help improve our orientation, identify priorities, and translate these into consistent actions.
Peer Support in Recovery
As First Responders and Veterans, we must remember that we are not just individuals. We embody the values, beliefs, and attitudes of those around us, and especially those beside us in service. When we view injuries to body and mind solely as an individual, we often overlook the crucial role of support in our recovery. To truly understand the impacts of service on our physical and mental health, we must consider these in the context of our social connections.
While support from family and friends is invaluable, sharing a sense of belonging with our unit is essential. Without trust, we can easily feel isolated and trapped. Addressing the importance of mental health in First Responders begins at the unit. First Responder peer support is literally a frontline defense. Peer support, while not a replacement for professional treatment, complements formal treatment because the single supportive therapist or loved one cannot replace a community.
First Responder peer support is literally a frontline defense
Those coping with anxiety, depression, or from trauma commonly withdraw from relationships. Reaching out to a trusted peer, such as a fireteam partner or another Member in a crew or platoon, is an important step toward recovery. We show humility when we ask for help and reinforce the idea that no one serves alone.
We show humility when we ask for help and reinforce the idea that no one serves alone.
Physical and mental wellness requires more than just passive awareness through newsletters or events. It demands prioritization and active participation at the unit level. The best way to ensure unit readiness is to keep every Member in the best possible condition of mind, body, spirit, and social connection.
While stigma around seeking help is decreasing, and access to healthcare resources has improved, there remains a critical need for preventative care and support between peers and within the chain of command. This is why peers, and especially those in leadership positions, must not only recognize signs that a Member is struggling, but proactively support.
The best way to ensure unit readiness is to keep every Member in the best possible condition of mind, body, spirit, and social connection.
Belonging & Performance
Developing relationships is an activity always in process. Because peers share similar experiences, and challenges, they can often offer practical advice from a shared perspective and develop a greater sense of belonging. Whether it is friendships or support groups, it can help Members feel less isolated. By focusing on the importance of mutual support, units can foster a culture of wellness that aids not only individual Members but improves unit performance and readiness.
