First responders are trained to handle anything on the job — but what about what they take home? Capturing the Load is designed to help firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatch operators, and military personnel understand the mental and emotional weight that comes with a career in emergency services.
Through four lessons, this course covers the reality of cumulative stress, how to recognize the signs of burnout and PTSD, practical strategies for building resilience, and how to access support when you need it. This course is appropriate for first responders at any stage of their career.
What you’ll learn:
- How cumulative stress affects first responders over time
- The warning signs of burnout and PTSD
- Evidence-based strategies for building mental resilience
- How and when to seek professional support
Completion time: Approximately 1 hour
Course Instructor
Section 1: Understanding the Mental Load of First Response
Lesson: The Reality of First Responder Stress
Section 2: Recognizing the Signs
Lesson: Burnout, PTSD, and What to Watch For
Section 3: Building Resilience
Lesson: Practical Strategies for Mental Wellness
Section 4: Seeking Help
Lesson: Resources and How to Use Them