Heroes And The Images Seared In Their Minds

Americans have rightly responded with an assemblage of praise for Police, EMT’s Firefighters and civilians who responded with such instantaneous effort after the recent bomb attacks in Boston.  What few know is most of these individuals do not consider themselves heroes, they long ago committed to a profession that requires the willingness lay ones life on the line in service to their community. Simply stated they feel they were doing their job!

This is not to say they do not deserve the accolades that they are currently receiving, only to point out that across our country there are thousands of individuals who have a similar ethic of selfless service even when facing personal loss of life.

The effects of responding to such a tragedy can be long lasting and include sleeplessness, terrifying dreams, increased use of mind altering substances and relationship disturbances. These symptoms are related to Critical Incident Stress Disorder. This condition can be of short duration if debriefings that allow safe expression of issues to be fully disclosed and discussed. Without intervention these symptoms often lead to a permanent condition known as PTSD.

Our first responders are in need of support and a caring environment to process the images burned in their minds eye as a result of this incident. To often responders ignore these symptoms and move forward expecting time and distance from the event to provide relief.

Our brave first responders pay a price for their commitment and actions in saving lives during a horrific event like this. On a personal note, this writer suffered similar symptoms after responding to an international disaster. Now is the time to encourage organizations in Boston to follow through on assuring the services that these responders will need.

Now is also the time to engage our local first responders and thank them for their service, for surely they would and will respond with as much professionalism, bravery and skill should an event occur in our communities.

Are our First Responders Heroes?  Yes, the day they signed up for the job they became agents of compassion, trust and service, truly examples of divinity manifested among us. Let us insure resources are available to them in their time of need.