Life as a first responder or veteran is different. Day after day, our emergency workers and defence personnel are exposed to potentially life-threatening situations. As first on the scene after distressing incidents, they often work long hours and put themselves at risk, all in the line of duty. It's more a lifestyle than an occupation. Our heroes dedicate their lives to others, and that kind of responsibility comes with a unique set of challenges.
On the edge
First responders and defence personnel deal with some heavy stuff on the job. They witness traumatic injuries and life-threatening emergencies that can seriously impact their well-being. They're exposed to the ugliest side of society and, unfortunately, must also be ready to manage the worst-case scenarios.
"It can seem in the emergency services like nothing affects us. But there's no way that you can't be affected by what you've seen and dealt with." Emergency Worker
Split second
The fast-moving, high-pressure environment is tense because critical decisions that can mean life or death are in their hands. The constant uncertainty and limited information available to the first responders and army personnel is inherently stressful. They operate on high alert, and that can lead to burnout.
Sleep deficit
Shift work plays havoc with our mental and emotional well-being primarily due to its effect on our sleeping habits. Poor quality sleep affects our decision-making ability, makes us prone to mood swings and weakens our immune system. In a crisis, it's vital to stay calm and clear-headed, but lack of sleep can make us irritable and stressed and unable to manage the emergency.
Out of sight
Separation from loved ones through deployment or working irregular hours can put a significant strain on family relationships. It can feel isolating, which means there's no support system or stability to fall back on. Those working away from family and friends can feel disconnected with no one to talk to about their problems after a hard shift. This can build up and lead to stress, anxiety and even depression.
Considering these unique challenges, how can we best support our veterans and first responders? To date, several studies show that social connectedness plays a significant role in our mental health and well-being.
The power of community
Although it sounds simple and, in the past, has been overlooked, the power of community is transformative for mental and emotional well-being. Being part of a community generates feelings of belonging, offers support, and helps individuals understand their purpose.
The whole idea of community is that you're embraced for who you are– there's no need to change to feel that sense of belonging. You simply belong. Within a community, you can reach out for support on the difficult days or when faced with a problem that's overwhelming to deal with on your own. You feel cared for and safe.
As part of a community, we see how we contribute to something more significant than ourselves. Having a purpose gives meaning to our lives because we feel valued and useful.
A community becomes your support system that cheers you on and offers a listening ear when you need it most. It's like having an extended family who really gets you and makes you feel you belong.
Taken from the Australian Journal of Emergency Management*
"For first responders, social connectedness exerts a protective influence on the harmful effects of trauma exposure, such as psychological distress in the form of anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and increased suicide risk."
Buddy Up – a shining light
Buddy Up Australia was created by ex-service personnel for veterans, current service personnel and first responders. The organisation offers a way for these people and their families to connect with like-minded people. Their mission is to keep members in the well zone of mental and physical health.
Events
The chapters around Australia organise various events and actively engage in their local community projects and initiatives.
From yoga workshops to quiz nights and historical tours to creative writing programs, boat trips and beach volleyball, Buddy Up brings members together through both social and fitness events. Every chapter also takes meaningful action to support their local communities, such as contributing to schools with volunteer projects and mentoring programs.
"Buddy Up Australia has been such a great organisation to be a part of. I have bushwalked, paddle boarded, rode, sketched and painted for the sheer physicality and/or enjoyment of connecting with a great bunch of ex-service and emergency service people and their families, cooked for the homeless and raised money to support similar activities for other veterans. Thanks for the opportunities and comradeship".
Deb in WA
Resources
As well as the events and volunteering opportunities, Buddy Up runs education programs around mental health and offers easy access to counselling for members and their families. It's a place where members can talk freely about their experiences and connect with others who understand what they've been through in the line of duty.
"Buddy Up has helped me reconnect with like-minded people post-ADF life. The chapter I'm now a part of in Geelong has made me feel part of something I thought I'd never feel again."
Jason, Victoria
Mateship and Empowerment
Organisations like Buddy Up cultivate mateship and understanding through a variety of shared experiences. Through physical fitness and volunteering, Buddy Up emphasises the integration of veterans and first responders into their local communities. By creating close-knit chapters across Australia, Buddy Up facilitates meaningful connections with like-minded individuals and encourages members to engage in community projects and initiatives actively.
Recently, Buddy Up ran a workshop and yoga class designed to destress your life. Free to all members and their families, the afternoon session was delivered by an ex-police Officer who shared a range of tools we can all use to manage stress in our lives. A gentle yoga class followed the presentation.
The way forward
As the challenges faced by veterans and first responders become more widely recognised and understood, we can better support our heroes. Being part of an organisation of veterans and first responders like Buddy Up means members can rediscover their tribe. Once again, they feel like they truly belong and are understood for who they are.
In less than 5 years, Buddy Up Australia has transformed the lives of many of our heroes, including Jason,
"Buddy Up has helped me reconnect with like-minded people post-ADF life. The chapter I'm now a part of in Geelong has made me feel part of something I thought I'd never feel again."
To find out more about Buddy UP Australia or to join, take a look at our website www.buddyupaustralia.org
Resources
* https://knowledge.aidr.org.au/resources/ajem-october-2022-the-role-of-social-connectedness-in-protecting-first-responder-mental-health-and-wellbeing/
