Implementing Cultural Change and Wellness Programs in the Firefighter Community

Dive into the heart of firefighter wellness with our latest podcast episode, where we unravel the critical importance of mental health initiatives like the PATH program in the fire service. Join Kara and Deputy Chief Rocky as they delve into the transformative impact of these programs, designed to fortify mental and physical well-being and dismantle the stigma surrounding operational stress injuries. Discover how the PATH program, coupled with the First Responder Wellness Initiative and the VK Wellness Initiative, are paving the way for a healthier, more resilient firefighting community through specialized support, education, and a strong emphasis on self-care and regular mental health check-ins. ✨Join our new Beneath the Helmet Facebook Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/602275498508857/ 🔥 Episode Highlights & Time Stamps: 00:00 🚒 Introduction to the PATH Program: Collaboration for Mental Health in Firefighting 16:05 🚒 Holistic Support through the PATH Program: Building Resilience and Preventing Operational Stress Injury 24:18 🚒 Tailored Education and Support: Addressing Firefighter Needs and Mental Health Services 32:16 🚒 Eradicating Stigma: Integrating Mental Health into Daily Training and Routine 40:18 🚒 Success of Regular Mental Health Check-ins: Enhancing Family Support and Reducing Sick Days 52:15 🚒 Specialized Training and Support: Prioritizing Well-being and Collaborative Efforts with Fire Departments 01:00:35 🚒 VK Wellness Initiative: Making Mental Health Accessible and Normalizing Workplace Conversations 01:08:44 🚒 Collaborative Creation of Wellness Programs: Emphasizing Self-care and Optimal Performance Join us as we explore the synergies between mental health professionals and the fire service, the proactive measures to prevent operational stress injuries, and the inspiring stories of resilience and support within the firefighting community. This episode is a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength of unity and dedicated wellness initiatives. Guests 📧 Kara Fogwell - VK Wellness Initiative @kara@vkwellness.ca 🌐www.vkwellness.ca 📧Deputy Fire Chief Rocky Swanson @rswanson@powellriver.ca Connect with the Host: 🎙️Arjuna George – Fire Chief (ret) Owner of Silver Arrow Coaching and Consulting, Beneath the Helmet Show, and Burnt Around the Edges author. www.silverarrowco.com www.burntaroundtheedges.com www.beneaththehelmet.ca Support the Show: 🔥Want to show your appreciation for Beneath the Helmet Show? Buy us a coffee. Your support enables us to keep producing content that makes a difference in the lives of our firefighters. Subscribe to Beneath The Helmet Show: 📩Join the BTH Community https://colossal-trailblazer-6113.ck.page/c0e1b81fbe 🎧Apple Podcasts: 🎧Spotify Podcasts: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/arjuna-george/episodes/Embracing-Wellness-The-Role-of-PATH-Program-in-Firefighters-Mental-Health-e2gc0ql 📺 Youtube: https://youtu.be/sr8KId-BKEo 🎧All other podcast platforms https://pod.link/1676314109 Episode Number: 039 Publish Date: Feb 27, 2024 Host: Arjuna George Guests: Kara Fogwell and Rocky Swanson