Sunday, March 2, 2014

Listen to the cry for help.


                I recently read Kelly Grayson’s new article on EMS1. Now most people who know me, know that Kelly is on my required reading list, and that I am occasionally fortunate enough to speak with him. So the linked article was a final push that lead me to posting this particular post.

                In 2006, I was clinically depressed. My marriage was on the rocks, I hated EMS. I had no prospects for improving things. I was near the end of my rope. I had a continuous stream of bad calls, which sooner or later gets to you. But I was fortunate. I found a job that allowed me to use my talents, knowledge, and experience while lowering my overall stress level. I jumped at it, and will forever be grateful.

                I was lucky. Many are not. We need to look for the signs of depression and burnout in our fellow EMS types. We often hide our problems from fellow EMS personnel, as well as friends and family. We have to look out for one another. Please help your brother and sister EMS personnel. If you’re in trouble, please get help. Use whatever recourses you have immediately. We lose to many to despair and depression.
 

Thank you Kelly, We need more like you,

 

Lone Medic