The Forgotten First Responders

I've been a journalist for close to thirty years. I was on the anchor desk during 9/11. I spent more hours than I can count watching the news feeds covering conflicts and crisis overseas. I was military spouse wondering when my husband would return home. I was scared. I had no tools. That was long ago.

My focus on health and well-being has given me the gift of connecting with those exposed to various traumas. Since then, I've covered everything from the opioid epidemic to the pandemic. And having been there, I get it. Because, I too was one of the forgotten first responders. The only other group that falls into this category: humanitarians. When I realized this, the wheels started spinning.

But, I wasn't alone.

Over three years ago, I had a lunch with someone I consider a mentor of my work in mental health and trauma. My colleague and friend Irene Hajisava . A licensed therapist and emergency response specialist, Irene frequently supports the police, firefighters, EMTs and their families. She has spent endless hours supporting those impacted by 9/11. Her work with the Syrian refugees in Greece will touch, move and inspire you. We met through the Havening Practitioner community. And with her love and passion for journalism and knowing yours truly has lived "Live: At the Scene" , it was the perfect union. Both of us were thinking the same thing. Who's supporting media professionals? And within days, we started planning.

And then the pandemic happened. Life on hold. It was frustrating. Because during a time when my fellow journalists needed it the most, all I could do for them was offer countless Zooms from the comfort of my own home. It strengthened my skills as a trauma informed practitioner...and for that, I am grateful.

Life is a falling into. And with much patience, trust and chance encounters, one introduction at a police conference paved the way for our idea to become action.

This past weekend, we finally launched our Broadcast Burnout Workshop. One of a number of programs and speaking engagements we are working on to support news media professionals. This is not just for those in front of the camera, but behind the scenes as well. Secondary trauma impacts all. During our workshops, the entire management team and staff walked away with valuable neuroscience based tools to support their daily self-care when they need it the most. They also learned more about themselves and how to support their families and co-workers. It was truly a beautiful event. One of many in the works.

A special thank you to WCTV -TV in Tallahassee for seeing the value of what we are sharing. For paving the way and opening doors for our work with journalists and beyond.

As I stood there in the news studio, looking out at an eager group of media professionals, I was beyond grateful that I can share valuable tools when work/life balance takes a toll. Tools I wish I had then and consider it a gift to share now.

Forgotten first responders no more.

If you or someone you know is in the media field and would like us to bring one of our workshops to your newsroom or organization, or speak at your conference or event, reply in the comments, messenger or set up a call with me to discuss the possibilities

Together, we're better.

With gratitude....

Hilary

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