Tips for Handling Stress

If you're just feeling overwhelmed and stressed out, remember, we understand. We’re fire-fighters, paramedics and EMTs.

That's why we're including this list of helpful tips and reminders on proven methods for handling stress, anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Remember – Alcohol, tobacco and other drugs can’t help you solve problems – they only make them worse! Avoid caffeine or sugar when you are stressed out and remember to take a break and rest!

Click any of the links below to read more about compassion fatigue a common stressor for Fire and EMS professionals:

What is compassion Fatigue?
http://www.ace-network.com/cfspotlight.htm

Self-Test for Compassion Fatigue
http://www.ace-network.com/cftest.htm

Overcoming Compassion Fatigue
http://pspinformation.com/caregiving/thecaregiver/compassion.shtml

After a traumatic event or critical incident, be sure to check for signs of stress. Download a fact sheet on Critical Incident Stress from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (click here –this is a pdf)

Remember, help is just a phone call away – 1-866-NJFD-EMS (1-866-653-3367)