Barbara Rubel's new book Living Blue is now available! Co-authored with Jason Palamara, a retired cold case homicide detective, it was published on December 6, 2023 and can be purchased on Amazon. The effects of vicarious trauma Living Blue has the power to change lives by offering a more complete understanding of the effects that vicarious trauma has on law enforcement personnel and their families. The book is based on evidence…
Read MoreInternational Stress Awareness Day is the first Wednesday in November Would you recommend your profession to others? High stress occupations are EMT, 911 operators, military, medical, firefighters, and police officers. No matter what your job is, your reaction to stress is a risk factor for the development of depression. Mental strain can make you feel unsafe both at work and at home. If you are a first responder, you know…
Read MoreLEOs are not asking for mental health support. Let’s work on changing that. Law enforcement officers (LEOs) face common mental health issues and often believe that treatment is effective, but professionally risky. They may fear a fitness for duty evaluation (FFDE) if they self-disclose that they need the help of a mental health professional. They may feel anxious about the possibility of losing their job. Masculinity within police culture can…
Read MoreSynergy When a first responder eats healthily at home and gets eight hours sleep, and works on their physical health, their job is positively impacted. By the same token, when they are satisfied with their job and feel supported in their role, their family life is positively impacted. Whether you are a friend or family member, you can help them find synergy in their life and impact their well-being. Synergy…
Read MoreI created a vicious trauma-approach that puts the law enforcement officer (LEO) at the center of issues related to well-being and suicide prevention. I care deeply about preventing suicide in LEOs as my father, a sergeant, died by suicide after he retired. I found meaning in his suicide by focusing on mental health, wellness and resilience in first responders. Vicarious-trauma informed practices are policies that focus on ways to lessen…
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