Although Tim Casey and I had never met in person, we had a long-standing friendship through emails and phone calls. Several years ago, I received his first email. He had attached an article he wrote about his struggles as a firefighter; the nightmares, his addiction to alcohol, and his suicide attempt. He wanted to share his story in an effort to…

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When someone we love dies, family members, co-workers and friends are often at a loss as to how to cope with the devastating effects of grief. In the fire service and EMS…

Suicide is a major, preventable public health problem. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2010 it was the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for 38,364 deaths. Based on data about suicides in sixteen National Violent Death…

If you choose to use anger in a positive fashion, it can be the driving force behind saving lives.

For those of us in the emergency response professions, we are always saddened to learn about the line of duty death of a firefighter, EMS person, or police officer especially if they were a member of our department or someone who was a very close friend.

I do not doubt that each one of…

Local newspaper headlines report the sad news of another fallen hero. The tragic death of a brave firefighter who has died in the line of duty. A dedicated professional who sacrificed his or her life that others may live or that homes and property would be saved from the ravages of fire. Most people halfheartedly acknowledge the event while searching for more…

Author’s Note: I address firefighters in this article, but the information provided applies to any and all emergency response professionals.

Suicide is a very serious topic that we rarely discuss. Each year, thousands of adults and children either attempt or complete suicide to resolve problems or put an end to emotional pain. As a result of their deaths, surviving family members and friends not only grieve, but must cope with feelings of guilt, anger,…

by Peggy Sweeney

The Sweeney Alliance

Journeys Through Grief Newsletters, Editor…

Suicide is a serious topic that we rarely discuss.

Yet, each year thousands of adults and children either attempt or complete suicide to resolve problems or put an end to emotional pain. As a result of their deaths, surviving family members and friends not only grieve but must cope with feelings of guilt and anger as well.

According to the…

by Peggy Sweeney

The Sweeney Alliance

Grieving Behind the Badge program

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