Retired chief Robert Avsec and Dr. Tracy Hejmanowski, who work with the Fire Service Psychology Association (FSPA), dive into the topics of firefighter mental health and psychology as part of the annual Mental Health Awareness Month. Avsec relates firefighter mental health support for firefighters like hazmat responses, with four levels of resources, which was the basis of a report he wrote and helped guide the organization of the FSPA.

From the awareness level, where the topic of mental health is no longer taboo in most firehouses, to offering peer support, up to have properly trained clinicians who can assist firefighters in a variety scenarios, from responses during their careers to family/home life or other factors that can stack up.

Dr. Hejmanowski, an experienced clinician for military and public safety responders, looks at the various resources available to firefighters and what they need to know as they navigate the process as a helper who is seeking guidance themselves. The two explain the ongoing outreach by FSPA as they work toward a goal of supporting departments across the country.

Related links:

• Robert Avsec’s full bio
• Dr. Tracy S. Hejmanowski
• Fire Service Psychology Association
• A Comparison Between HazMat Response Levels for Firefighters and Mental Health Clinician Scopes of Practice
• 9th Annual Fire Service Psychology Conference
• First Responder Project
• Halfway There: A Generational Shift in Firefighter Mental Health
• The Firehouse Yak: David Griffin – Retirement and Lessons from the Hardest Days
• The Favor Strategy: Reframing How to Help Firefighters in Emotional or Mental Distress
• The Brotherhood Barrier: How Group Bonding Shapes First Responder Attitudes Toward Treating Mental Health
• Firefighters' Mental Health Is Aided When Departments Plan for Major Incidents