Summary

In this conversation, Jennifer interviews Sonia Jorgensen, a US Navy veteran and founder of Hooves and Heroes, a nonprofit organization that connects veterans and first responders with horses for therapeutic experiences. Sonia shares her journey of founding the organization, the healing power of horses, and how they provide immediate feedback to humans about their emotional and physical states. The discussion delves into the importance of awareness, community, and the unique approach of equine assisted learning as a supportive method for mental health without the stigma of traditional therapy. In this conversation, Sonia Jorgensen discusses her journey in healthcare leadership, the impact of COVID-19 on her career, and the lack of support for first responders. She emphasizes the importance of community and resources for mental health, particularly for first responders and veterans. Sonia introduces equine-assisted learning as a therapeutic approach that helps individuals regulate their emotions and connect with their environment through interactions with horses. The discussion covers various exercises and techniques used in sessions, highlighting the benefits of breathwork and the horse-human connection in emotional healing.

summaryIn this conversation, state representative Peter Abbarno discusses House Bill 1002, which aims to provide PTSD coverage for medical examiners and coroners in Washington State. He shares insights on the unique stresses faced by these professionals, the legislative process involved in authoring the bill, and the importance of community input in shaping policy. The discussion also touches on the funding mechanisms for the bill and the broader implications for public service providers dealing with mental health issues. In this conversation, Peter Abbarno discusses the importance of addressing stress and PTSD in first responders, his journey into politics driven by a desire to improve his community, and his current legislative focus on securing funding for fire districts. He emphasizes the need for community engagement in the legislative process and encourages individuals to share their ideas with their representatives.

takeaways

• The bill aims to recognize PTSD for medical examiners and coroners.
• Community input is crucial for effective legislation.
• Medical examiners are often overlooked in discussions about PTSD.
• The average tenure for medical legal death investigators is about five years.
• Funding for the bill comes from the existing workers' compensation system.
• PTSD treatment can be complex and costly.
• The bill is currently in the rules committee awaiting further action.
• There is a significant need for stress mitigation resources for these professionals.
• Legislators often hear about issues directly from constituents.
• The bill has the potential to impact a small but important group of workers. We need to do a better job identifying stressors.
• First responders require adequate treatment for PTSD.
• Community engagement is crucial for effective legislation.
• Peter Abbarno's political journey is driven by family values.
• Funding for fire districts is essential for community safety.
• Legislators are accessible and open to new ideas.
• Grants for fire districts can improve infrastructure and resources.
• Public service should be motivated by community needs.
• The legislative process can take time and persistence.
• Successful policy ideas often originate from community input.

summaryIn this conversation, Jennifer and Brooke Lundquist discuss the importance of mental health and wellness for first responders. They explore the challenges faced by first responders, the significance of establishing relationships with counselors, and the innovative EMDR therapy that helps process trauma. Brooke shares her journey into counseling first responders and emphasizes the need for accessible mental health resources. The discussion highlights the evolving perception of mental health in the first responder community and the importance of proactive wellness strategies. In this conversation, Jennifer and Brooke Lundquist discuss the challenges faced by first responders, particularly in managing stress and communication within relationships. They explore the impact of shift work on family dynamics, the importance of emotional support animals, and the integration of mental health training in paramedic programs. The discussion also delves into retirement planning, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and identity beyond work. Additionally, they introduce a new support group for female first responders, highlighting the importance of community and shared experiences in navigating the unique challenges of their profession.

takeaways

• Brooke Lundquist is passionate about first responder wellness and mental health.
• EMDR therapy is effective for processing trauma.
• First responders often face unique challenges that require specialized support.
• Establishing a relationship with a counselor before a crisis is beneficial.
• Mental health is becoming a new norm in first responder training.
• Proactive wellness strategies are essential for first responders.
• Counseling can include individual and couples therapy for first responders.
• Building rapport with mental health providers removes barriers to seeking help.
• First responders should know where to find mental health resources.
• The stigma around mental health in first responders is decreasing. The stress of first responder jobs can impact family communication.
• Shift work creates unique challenges for relationships.
• Replenishment and capacity are essential for wellness.
• Emotional support animals can provide significant comfort.
• Mental health training is crucial for paramedics.
• Retirement planning should include identity and purpose.
• Self-awareness is key to a successful transition into retirement.
• Community support is vital for female first responders.
• Counseling should be normalized for those in helping professions.
• Accessible mental health resources are important for first responders.