Maintaining your relationships

Within emergency services, there is a general understanding that no task is done by one individual. Everything is a team effort, from cleaning your station, rig, ambulance or anything else. The same holds true for your relationships at home. Day in and day out, as an emergency services first responder, you already have considerable stress that can easily make its way back home. 

To combat that stress and to help you maintain healthy, happy relationships of all kinds, try some of these tips: 

Communicate 

Proper, thought-provoking and honest conversation, is essential in any relationship, no matter the setting. Around your station, common misunderstandings often create issues among shifts or between line personnel and administrative members. 

Miscommunications can happen anywhere. How often have you argued with your significant other where the root cause is either incorrectly communicating or not communicating at all?  

Unless your significant other is also a part of the emergency services field, they cannot understand the stress you may face at work if you do not relay the information to them. While many would like to avoid the gruesome details, simply saying, “I had a hard day today; can we talk about it?” can go a long way. 

Spend quality time together 

It’s easy and understandable to go out and grab drinks with your team members after a long or upsetting shift. While social relationships are an excellent way to help stave off stress and help you cope with the events of your day, don’t forget to nurture your relationships at home. Set aside time every week to spend quality time with your significant other, family and friends outside of work. Plan a date night, a weekend getaway, or simply make a home-cooked meal and enjoy your time together. 

Source: EMS1.com