Building Resilience: Dan Willis on First Responders' Mental Wellness
The mind is so complex and mysterious, and what really post-traumatic stress is is an injury. I don't know why they ever called it a disorder.
Ever wondered how first responders cope with the emotional weight of their jobs? In this episode of 'Rescue the Rescuer', host Michael Sugrue chats with retired police captain Dan Willis about the mental health challenges faced by those on the front lines. With nearly 30 years of experience in law enforcement, Dan shares his journey from dealing with PTSD to developing a wellness program specifically for police officers.
He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness as a crucial step toward emotional survival and offers practical tips for breaking negative habits and reconnecting with the passion for the job. Through his book 'Bulletproof Spirit: The First Responders Essential Resource for Protecting and Healing Mind and Heart', Dan has become a beacon of hope for many in the field. He also highlights the significance of character-based policing and the urgent need for mental health support within the first responder community.
This conversation is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in mental wellness and resilience-building. Tune in to discover how to cultivate a bulletproof spirit and find inspiration in Dan's story.