Rescuers should acknowledge tough situations and recognize accomplishments to take care of themselves
December 7, 2021,
Brampton, Ontario
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) gives emergency responders tips for taking care of themselves:
It recommends to limit working hours to no longer than 12-hour shifts, try to work in teams, and talk to family, friends, and teammates about feelings and experiences.
Healthcare providers work under stress witnessing human suffering and risking their lives on a regular basis along with intense workloads, life-and-death decisions, and separation from family specially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is important to identify emotional and mental health issues like burnout and secondary traumatic stress. Coping techniques like taking breaks, eating healthy foods, exercising, and using the buddy system can help prevent and reduce emotional distress.
https://emergency.cdc.gov/coping/responders.asp
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