People in high-risk jobs, like emergency responders, healthcare workers, or law enforcement officers, put their physical and mental well-being at risk every day they show up for work. They’re constantly in fight-or-flight mode, facing unpredictable schedules and interactions, which stacks up stress over time.
If you’re in such a position and feel the stress building up, you should know there are ways to keep working the job you love and keep yourself healthy and sane. You just need a few strategies to cope with the stress and a strong support network that helps you keep your mental fortitude.
In today’s article, we’ll share a few tried and tested strategies to help you keep it together when things get tough at work. We’ll explore smart ways to handle stress and connect you with real-world solutions catering to high-risk situations. So stay tuned until the end!
Mental Health Resources for High-Risk Jobs
The pressure of unpredictable schedules, intense workloads, and potentially dangerous environments can lead to chronic stress. This constant state of alertness wears you down over time.
Let’s take driving for a ridesharing driver (for services like Lyft and Uber) as an example. First, you have the stress of being an independent worker and managing a business, but there’s also the unpredictable schedule and the constant interaction with people from all walks of life.
While it doesn’t pose the same level of risk and exposure to traumatic events as a first responder job, it’s still a high-stress activity, and it can wear you down, especially if you have to worry about how you’ll be able to pay your medical bills if you get in an accident.
Side note: If this happens, talk to a lawyer, as there are situations where you can get workers’ compensation for an injured Uber driver.
For regular workers in high-risk jobs, many organizations now offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which offer confidential counseling sessions at no additional cost. EAPs are designed to help you manage work-related stress or personal issues that might impact your job performance.
In addition, regular health insurance plans frequently cover a portion of therapy costs. This includes sessions with psychologists, licensed therapists, or social workers. However, the specifics depend on your plan, like copays and the number of covered visits per year.
There are also peer support groups for specific professions where you can share your experiences and ask for advice.
In these groups, you meet others who truly understand the unique stressors and emotional experiences tied to your line of work. For example, law enforcement officers might gather in peer support meetings to share stories and coping strategies.
How Technology is Supporting Mental Wellness
Due to today’s impressive advancements in communication technology and online spaces, people who need help have easier access to resources.
Let’s take teletherapy as an example. Due to this technology, you can now speak with licensed therapists from anywhere via video calls. This flexibility can be a game-changer when juggling erratic work schedules.
Apps focused on mental health may also be of help. Mindfulness apps such as Headspace and Calm provide guided meditations and stress-relief exercises right on your phone. These tools help manage anxiety and promote relaxation during hectic days.
Wearable technology also plays a role by monitoring physical indicators of stress – like heart rate or sleep patterns – and providing feedback that encourages healthier habits. For instance, some devices prompt you to take breaks or practice breathing exercises if they detect heightened stress levels.
Building a Supportive Network: Who You Need by Your Side
A supportive network is crucial when navigating high-risk jobs. Having the right people by your side can make all the difference in managing stress and maintaining mental well-being.
Start with trusted colleagues who understand your work’s unique challenges. Their firsthand experience offers empathy and practical advice tailored to your field. Friends outside of work also play an important role, providing a fresh perspective and emotional support during tough times.
Professional mentors or coaches offer guidance on career development while helping you balance personal goals with job demands. They bring valuable insights from their own experiences that can help you navigate tricky situations.
Family members, friends, and loved ones are also of utmost importance as they are often the closest to your heart. Invest effort and care in these relationships, and allow them to heal you whenever you can spend time together.
In Summary
Build a solid support network, find useful resources near you, and use whatever tech tool works to keep your mental health afloat. Also, rely on peers, mentors, and mental health professionals to guide you in maintaining resilience amidst the pressures of high-risk jobs.
