We are continuing to re-share a "Blast from the Past" series that I did back in Season 1 of Behind the Line. It was one of my favourite series and I think really important content for those who may have missed it the first time. The series takes a look at Brené Brown's work in her book, Dare to Lead, and discusses applications to helping professions where it is absolutely IMPERATIVE that we improve leadership and systems, because they are hella broken. I hope you'll share this series with your sphere of influence and that together we can make it different...

I am grateful to Jennifer Pound for joining me today. Some of the pieces that stood out to me in our conversation, as it relates to aspects of the system that need to change and tools that daring leaders can work to engage with more intentionally included:

·        Limited training around PTSD and mental health related OSI’s, which reduces our ability to self-assess and identify our risks and needs early on in the process. This increases our risk for a greater degree of impact.

·        Lack of accessibility to treatment or intervention support in a timely manner. A lack of clarity about the process and the steps to go through. A lack of support in navigating the process and a need for system advocacy for those needing support through the process while managing an OSI.

·        Failure to support connection and bridging through the process of being off work with an OSI. This leaves a feeling of being abandoned by the system we have given so much to serve, cultivates resentment that enhances the impact of the OSI and exacerbates symptoms. During these times, we need connection and support and the effort needs to come from within the system, not from those who are struggling to get by while managing an OSI.

·        A need for collaboration. Those who know the most about the impacts of the work are those on the front lines engaged in the work. Those in the upper levels of the system need to be open to hearing from others and willing to hear ideas and address needs collaboratively.

Consider these questions: Were you trained in what to look for as it relates to your own mental wellness and work related stress injuries? Do you have a strong understanding of the process and steps if you were to need support within the system that you work? How can you increase your knowledge of these pieces to support your wellness need?

You can learn more about Jennifer and her work advocating for First Responders and Front Line Workers by checking out her blog, “Stay On The Line” at fuelforfirstresponders.com. You can also view recent media coverage on CBC, here; and on CTV here.

If you haven’t yet, check out the free Beating the Breaking Point Indicators Checklist & Triage Guide to help you self-assess your experiences and exposure to burnout. Use this tool as information as you get honest with yourself about the impacts you have experienced – and start considering telling the story of your resilience as someone who has invested in their own wellness by looking into our Beating the Breaking Point Training Program designed for First Responders and Front Line Workers. You can grab the free indicators checklist here, and learn more about the training program here.

As discussed in todays’ episode, check out Brené Brown’s book Dare to Lead. You may also enjoy some of her other books, including Rising Strong; Braving the Wilderness; and Daring Greatly. These are some of my favourite books for personal development and wellness. She has a couple of other books that are also excellent, but if you’re new to her work, these are the ones I would highly suggest starting with.

Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram, or email me at support@thrive-life.ca. I love hearing from you! Subscribe and share this podcast with those you know. I appreciate every like, rating and review – every single one helps this podcast to be seen by other First Responders & Front Line Workers out there. Help me on my mission to help others just like you to not only survive, but to thrive – both on the job and off.