The holidays can be a magical time for many families, but for first responders and their loved ones, it often comes with extra worries and stress. Between busy work schedules, emotional callouts, and missing traditions at home, it’s no wonder many in the first responder community find the season tough. Jennifer, and Ashlee share real stories and advice about handling holiday stress as a first responder or family member. Let’s explore their tips and experiences to help support Holidays and First Responder Mental Health.

Why Are the Holidays Hard for First Responders?

First responders don’t often get holidays off. In the episode, Jennifer explained, “They don’t get that day off. Some of them don’t.” For some families, it means celebrating without everyone present.

For others, holidays may bring up difficult memories. As Jennifer said, “It kind of can feel so foreign and different, and traditions that we were looking forward to can be sad and can be hard.” Sometimes a first responder’s worst call might happen on a holiday. These tough memories can stick and make future holidays harder.

Real Experiences: Giving Back and Staying Connected

Even though holidays can be stressful, there are positive moments too. Ashlee shared a fond memory about “Shop with a Cop”- a program where officers help kids shop for gifts. She remembered, “It was such a learning experience for me as a child of a first responder … to be so grateful for everything that I do have and how to give back to the community.”

Making time for connection, through new or old traditions, can help. Whether it’s starting a puzzle together or watching football as a family, building moments of connection makes a big difference.

Recognizing the Emotional Toll

Along with missing time together, first responders often experience trauma linked to the holidays. Jennifer talked about how “the holidays can be … so hard because they can go through a traumatic experience on the job.” First responders might have to deliver bad news to families or witness something tragic, sometimes on Christmas Eve or other special days. These memories can cloud their own celebrations later, sometimes for years.

If you ever wonder, “Why do I feel so down during the holidays?” you’re not alone. Our brains connect memories and dates, so anniversary times can make emotions stronger.

Self-Care and Giving Yourself Grace

Ashlee & Jennifer emphasized the importance of self-care for Holidays and First Responder Mental Health. It’s normal to feel anxious, sad, or more tired this time of year. Jennifer reminded listeners to “give ourselves the grace and meet ourselves where we’re at.”

Some tips from the podcast include:

• Say No: You don’t have to do it all or attend every event. “There is so much pressure on us to get so much done”

• Be Present: Put down phones and screens to spend quality time with loved ones.

• Let Yourself Feel: It’s okay if you’re not cheerful every minute. Accept your feelings and know that it’s normal.

Creating New Traditions

If an old tradition feels sad or difficult, try making a new one. Ashlee challenged first responders to “make a tradition … make the connection.” Even something small, like a holiday breakfast together or a walk around the block, can become special.

Support Each Other

Don’t forget that the whole family feels the strain. Sometimes partners at home are carrying the holiday load while a first responder is at work. Acknowledge each other’s efforts and communicate openly.

If you or someone you love is struggling, there is no shame in seeking help. Therapy can be a helpful space to talk through heavy feelings or memories.

Remember: holidays are just a season, and seasons change. Focus on care, communication, and connection to support mental health for yourself and your loved ones. Happy holidays from the podcast crew, take care of each other!

If you want to hear more real stories from people inside the world of first responders, check out “When The Call Hits Home” podcast!

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