Firefighting is a strenuous job – physically, mentally and emotionally. Call after call, year after year, the stress can add up and lead to detrimental effects, especially for a firefighter’s mental health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 13% of firefighters screened positive for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 53% screened positive...Read More
Being the spouse, partner or family member of a firefighter is no easy thing. We all know how difficult it can be when your loved one gets called into a dangerous situation – and it’s sometimes just as stressful, if not more, to wait for them to come back home safely. From unpredictable schedules, emotional...Read More
While all systems of the body are important, the heart is the epicenter of it all. That’s why cardiac health is important to consider at all times of the year; however, it becomes even more prevalent during February, which is deemed American Heart Month by the American Heart Association. There is good reason to raise...Read More
By Dr. Paul Anderson, occupational and lifestyle medicine, HealthPartners It’s no secret that being a firefighter takes a toll on your body and your mind. Physically, firefighters perform intense work from the time they leave the station until they put away their gear at the end of a shift. All that intensity seems manageable when...Read More
That’s a wrap on the 2023 Firefighter Health Forum! We appreciate everyone who was able to join us for this important annual conference in central Minnesota filled with meaningful discussions on firefighter health and wellness. An animated keynote from Dr. Jody Janati shed light on tips and tricks to communicate effectively and with zero drama. And...Read More
Austin fire chief prioritizes firefighter health with MnFIRE training Firefighters are in an others-first career, often focusing on people who need help before tending to their own needs. As a fire chief, Jim McCoy knows it’s part of his job to give the members of his Austin Fire Department resources to make their health a...Read More
From the anticipation of beginning a new year to adjusting to whatever else life throws at you, the holiday season can be stressful for many people, but for firefighters and first responders especially so thanks to icy road conditions; increased cooking, heating and electrical hazards; and more. As you’re celebrating the season with fellow first...Read More
Minnesota’s annual giving holiday is Thursday, Nov. 17, but you don’t have to wait to support your local firefighters! From now through Nov. 17, visit the MnFIRE GiveMN page and make a donation to help protect the health and well-being of firefighters across the state. Firefighters continue to face alarming rates of cardiovascular disease, emotional trauma...Read More
You’re invited! Join us Saturday, Jan. 21 at the Grand Casino Mille Lacs in Onamia to experience meaningful health and wellness training at the second annual Firefighter Health Forum. The inaugural Firefighter Health Forum in 2022 was such a success – gathering mental health experts and fire service leaders from across the state, and sparking...Read More
Five tips for dealing with a new diagnosis Life can bring many stressors, which can deteriorate both physical and mental health. Many people know how to care for their bodies when they are dealing with a physical ailment, but if you are diagnosed with a mental health condition, what happens next? You may feel a...Read More
