In this article, you will find a list of helpful ways firefighters can avoid burnout. First responders work long hours under incredibly stressful conditions. It is no wonder that many of them report high levels of burnout. Since we all rely on our first responders to protect against travesties, it is absolutely vital that they remain laser-focused and competent. We must do away with burnout, which can cause tiredness, disinterest, and horrific mistakes.
Identify Early Symptoms
Burnout manifests itself differently depending on the person, but there are some common symptoms you should recognize. As a firefighter, you know to expect work that is arduous and frightening. If you are tired, stressed, or feel a sense of dread when thinking about your duties as a firefighter, you could be experiencing burnout. Some other common symptoms include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Chronic joint pain
Learn how to identify your early burnout symptoms. You can prevent the worst outcomes if you manage your stress before it becomes overwhelming.
Prioritize Time Off
One of the more helpful ways firefighters can avoid burnout is to prioritize time off. With so much responsibility resting on your shoulders, it can be easy to focus on work-related issues even when you have time off.
You must disconnect entirely from time to time. No pagers. No group messages. If you want comfort and security in your job for the long run, it is advantageous to take some time for yourself.
Expand Professional Goals
People very often experience burnout because they feel stuck in their current position. They might see little to no room for a promotion in their department. If you sense your employer does not provide adequate career advancement, it is very natural to feel restless and uncertain.
To minimize the risk of burnout, keep your options open. People need firefighters everywhere. Look around for departments that are hiring, or you can think about other careers worthy of your talents and capabilities.
