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You might think avoidance is your brain’s way of protecting you from the horrors of a traumatic experience. It's like your brain is saying, "Nope, not dealing with that nightmare again." But guess what? This so-called protective shield? It can actually blow up in your face. Avoidance can make you feel detached, numb, and even crankier than a caffeine-deprived cop on a Monday morning.

So, here's the deal: after something traumatic happens, your brain goes into survival mode, trying to keep you from reliving that awful moment. It's like your brain becomes this overprotective bodyguard, whispering, "Avoid anything that reminds us of that hellish experience."

Now, avoidance comes in all shapes and sizes. Let's start with Avoidance #1: dodging thoughts, emotions, or even conversations about the traumatic event. It's like slamming a mental door and saying, "Nope, not opening that can of worms." Then there's Avoidance #2: avoiding places, people, or activities that might trigger those nasty memories. It's like playing hide and seek, but instead of hiding from a friend, you're hiding from your own feelings. Clever, huh?

In this episode, we're diving deep into how avoidance works and, more importantly, how to do something different. Because, let’s face it, living in hiding isn’t living at all.

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE

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Tim Sears, 44 year veteran of the fire service joins us again to discuss the tools he has been using to overcome PTSD and his work with Stronger Families.
 
Tim Sears joined Stronger Families with 44 years in the fire service, having served in 4 different fire departments. Tim was actively involved in water rescue, tillered ladder truck ops, safety committee, fire investigator, hazmat, PEER support, board member on KFFBA Benevolent Fund and active in his IAFF Union Local 2545. Tim retired in 2021 from the Kirkland Fire Department in Washington State with many department accommodations for his 30 years of service. Tim can be reached via email at

Who is Stronger Families?
Stronger families exists to offer life-changing relationship skills to military, veteran, and first responder families so they can be strong and thrive.

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE

Send us a text

"Tall" Tim, a 44 year veteran in the fire service, started as a volunteer in Toppenish on the Yakima Indian Nation Reservation at the age of 16. 40 years from the start if his career in 2018, he began waking with horrible night sweats, then nightmares. Soon his sleep was effected, unable to sleep 4 nights out of the week...then the thoughts of being "Done" for good began to consume him. Tim's wife, who he still lovingly calls has "bride" begged him to retire believing it would help his symptoms.  "NOPE" things got way worse. 

Then out of the blue, Stronger Families calls him about a job? Director For First Responders. He thought "Anyone but me" but the world had a bigger plan for him. After meeting with them a few times, he told them he thought their programs was great, but he was not their guy. He was broken physically, mentally and spiritually. His "bride" encouraged him to try thinking it would get his mind off missing being a firefighter and then he really learned what was wrong with him... "PTSD". Since then, Tim has been on a mission to improve his quality of life and recover from the unrelenting symptoms PTSD can bring about. He lives by the acronym CNEI, which means Constant never ending improvement.

After  44 years in the fire service, having served in 4 different fire departments. Tim found a new life for himself. Tim is now the Director of First Responders for Stronger Families.  Tim was actively involved in water rescue, tillered ladder truck ops, safety committee, fire investigator, hazmat, PEER support, a board member on KFFBA Benevolent Fund, and active in his IAFF Union Local 2545. Tim retired in 2021 from the Kirkland Fire Department with many department accommodations for his 30 years of service.

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE

Send us a text

When you know your mental health is taking a hit because of your work environment it can be a hard choice to leave without some residual aftermath taking place. In the competitive and ever-changing landscape of the first responder workforce, the phenomenon of workplace survivor's guilt has emerged as a challenging emotional struggle for some individuals. With so many positions available as a first responder it opens up the power of choice to move departments for the sake of your mental health. It wasn't always this way. Some folks find themselves grappling with the conflicting emotions of relief and guilt. This guilt stems from the fact that they have managed to make an empowered choice to move when those who have become friends and allies over time are "left behind" to get pummeled with non-stop runs.

The guilt can manifest in different ways, such as fearing their colleagues' judgment and resentment. These individuals may struggle with feelings of loyalty, wondering whether they could have done more to protect. In addition to grappling with survivor's guilt, feeling as if you've abandoned old co-workers can cause immense guilt, as these relationships were built on shared experiences, trust, and support. Cutting ties can feel like a betrayal, leaving individuals torn between their loyalty to their former colleagues and their need to adapt to the changing dynamics of their work environment and their mental health. 

Navigating workplace survivor's guilt and learning how to maintain relationships with old co-workers is a deeply personal journey. It requires individuals to acknowledge and process their emotions, seek support from trusted sources, and find a balance between self-preservation and compassion. Ultimately, understanding that they cannot control the circumstances but can focus on their own growth and success can help individuals find a path forward amidst the complex emotions that arise in these situations.

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE

Send us a text

An all too common thing for a First Responder to experience are nightmares, intrusive memories and at times, flashbacks. These intrusive symptoms can be highly distressing, as they intrude upon the individual's daily life, disrupt their thoughts, and evoke intense feelings of fear, anger, or sadness. The person may find it challenging to concentrate, experience irritability, or engage in avoidance behaviors to prevent triggering these distressing memories or reminders. In this episode ATTD hosts help breakdown what's happening and why.

Criterion B of the PTSD Criteria is often referred to as "intrusion symptoms," encompassing in a range of distressing and disruptive experiences that can arise following a traumatic event.

Individuals who meet Criterion B experience intrusive thoughts, memories, or flashbacks related to the traumatic incident. These distressing recollections can occur both during waking hours and in the form of nightmares during sleep. The person may feel as though they are reliving the traumatic event, leading to intense emotions, physical reactions, and an overwhelming sense of fear or helplessness.

Criterion B also includes the experience of distressing physiological or psychological reactions when exposed to reminders of the traumatic event. Triggers can be external stimuli, such as certain sounds, smells, or sights associated with the trauma, or internal cues, like thoughts or emotions that remind the person of the event. These triggers often evoke strong emotional and physical responses, such as anxiety, panic attacks, a racing heart, or a sense of impending doom.

Criterion B is a crucial component of diagnosing PTSD as it underscores the profound impact that trauma can have on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. Understanding and recognizing these intrusive symptoms can help individuals seek appropriate support and treatment to address the lingering effects of trauma and regain a sense of control over their lives.

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE

Send us a text

Cinnamon and Erin are coming off the heels of attending 1st Responder Conferences in South Bend, Indiana. Fired up and motivated, your hosts share why conferences are so important and what's available by attending.

Attending mental health conferences is crucial in today's world, where mental health issues, especially for first responders are becoming increasingly prevalent. These conferences provide a platform for mental health professionals, peer support, fellow first responders and advocates to come together and share their knowledge, experiences, and best practices in the field of mental health. By attending these conferences, individuals can learn about the latest research and treatments for mental health conditions, network with peers, and gain new insights into how to improve their own mental health practices. Even more important, mental health conferences can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness by raising awareness and educating the public on the importance of mental health and wellness. Overall, attending mental health conferences is essential for anyone who wants to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field and improve their ability to provide effective mental health care.

To invite and host 1st Responder conferences in your city, click here to be connected to their contact form. 

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE

Send us a text

Sometimes, asking for help can be one of the hardest things a person will do. It requires a certain level of vulnerability, surrender and trust. However, that’s just what Marine Corps veteran and retired law enforcement officer, Brian Gillespie did. Brian, born and raised in Jersey City, came to terms with his own struggles with substance abuse more than eight years ago and hasn't looked back.

Brian has  been involved in the first responder world since 1982, when he joined the US Marine Corps from 1982-1986. Until today, he has been active in that first responder community. He left the Marines in 86 and began his career a few years later in law enforcement. Even though he's retired, he is still active in drums and pipes groups, and very active with a Police Benevolent Association. That's just Social Civic. Then you throw in the professional aspect. Now he has become a treatment advocate for first responders seeking recovery for Addiction and Mental health issues. He currently is a treatment advocate (RESCU: Recovering Emergency Service Community United), at a treatment facility as that treatment advocate is called Recovery Centers of America and Raritan Bay, New Jersey, and he helps first responders and their families find recovery daily.

Learn more about our guest by visiting some of the links below:
https://recoverycentersofamerica.com/blogs/helps-vets-overcome-drug-alcohol-abuse/
https://www.vets4warriors.com/about/our-leadership/brian_gillespie/
https://www.nj.com/hudson/2021/11/former-marine-and-jersey-city-native-helps-other-vets-overcome-drug-and-alcohol-abuse.html
https://dnjmcl.org/department-staff/

ATTD Music Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling 
License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero 
License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows
License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE

Send us a text

Suicide is a deeply distressing and complex issue that demands our utmost attention and empathy. Understanding and recognizing the red flags associated with suicide can be crucial in identifying those who may be at risk and offering them the support they desperately need. Isolation and withdrawal from loved ones, sudden changes in behavior or mood, persistent feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, expressions of wanting to die or a preoccupation with death, giving away prized possessions, and engaging in reckless or self-destructive behaviors are just a few of the red flags that should never be ignored. By being vigilant and compassionate, we can create a world where the warning signs of suicide are treated with the seriousness they deserve.

On this episode, our first ever hotline caller shares an emotional message about the sudden loss of a friend and co-worker. Following her loss, he wonders "did I miss something" and "how can I just slow down?"

The aftermath of a friend's suicide can leave us grappling with an overwhelming sense of guilt and confusion, as if we missed something crucial along the way. We question ourselves, wondering if there were signs we failed to recognize or conversations we should have had. It's important to remember that suicide is a deeply complex and individual struggle, often shrouded in secrecy and pain.  While it's natural to feel a profound sense of loss and a desire to understand, it is essential to seek support, engage in open dialogue, and find solace in the fact that we cannot always control or prevent the choices others make. It is through empathy, self-forgiveness, and the shared process of healing that we can begin to reconcile the feelings of missing something and find a path toward healing and acceptance.

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE

Send us a text

Join us as we shed light on this crucial aspect of PTSD. The direct exposure a traumatic event may have on a person and why it happens. The ATTD hosts will meticulously unpack the details of what Criterion A entails, its importance in diagnosing PTSD, and how it relates to traumatic experiences. 

Unfortunately, first responders are often impacted by the effects of the job that ultimately can cause PTSD. Little known fact, there are over 600,000 different ways that someone can be diagnosed with PTSD. In today's episode, we explore the first criterion of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) diagnosis, known as Criterion A. 

Criterion A of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the initial and crucial component in diagnosing the disorder. It establishes the presence of a traumatic event that has caused significant distress to the individual. Criterion A recognizes the traumatic nature of the event, acknowledging the profound impact it can have on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. It serves as the foundation for further assessment and examination of PTSD symptoms to determine the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE

Send us a text

Mental health challenges affect millions of first responders around the world. Unfortunately, misconceptions about therapy often discourage people from seeking help. They also contribute to the stigma surrounding mental health issues, and prevent people from learning more about or utilizing the services of trained mental health professionals.

After the Tones Drop hosts spend some time filtering through and debunking some of the most common myths of therapy, such as:

• Only “crazy” or “mental” people need to talk to therapists. I haven’t lost my mind. I’m not having a nervous breakdown, so I don’t need a therapist
• Talking to a therapist is for people who are weak, or who don’t have enough will power. We should solve our own problems
• Once I start therapy, I will have to go forever. Counseling takes forever.
• All you do in therapy is talk about your past relationship with your parents / therapists blame a client’s problem on their upbringing
• A counselor doesn’t know me and he or she can’t help me
• People will know that I am seeing a counselor
• Therapy doesn’t work
• I’m beyond help

Click the links below to find more information about the myths of therapy.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-right-mindset/202005/10-common-myths-about-therapy

https://forgehealth.com/how-to-combat-4-myths-surrounding-treatment-for-first-responders/

https://ct.counseling.org/2018/01/why-do-cops-avoid-counseling-eight-myths-about-law-enforcement-officers-and-mental-health-treatment/

https://comprehensiveclinic.byu.edu/debunking-12-myths-about-therapy

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE