Recognizing Early Warning Signs in First Responders

First responders are trained to recognize danger on the job — but sometimes the warning signs show up at home first.In this clip from The Blue Line Voice: Blood, Sand & Smoke Podcast, retired Sgt. Mark DiBona talks about the early warning signs that a first responder may be struggling mentally or emotionally.Irritability. Personality changes. Pulling away from family. Losing interest in the things they used to enjoy. Coming home angry. Getting defensive. Saying “I’m fine” when everyone around them knows something is wrong.Mark also speaks directly to the role of spouses, partners, and families. They are often the first ones to see the change, and they are a critical part of helping first responders get the support they need.This clip is an important reminder: if someone you care about is acting differently, don’t ignore it. Have the hard conversation. Step in. Do the right thing for the person you love.Full episode: You May Love the Job, But the Job Doesn’t Love You | Sgt. Mark DiBonaProtecting The Guardian:https://protectingtheguardian.com/Resources:https://protectingtheguardian.com/resourcesFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/protectingtheguardianIf you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988.#TheBlueLineVoice #BloodSandAndSmoke #SgtMarkDiBona #FirstResponderMentalHealth #PoliceMentalHealth #LawEnforcement #OfficerWellness #ProtectingTheGuardian #SpouseSupport #FamilySupport #SuicidePrevention #BreakTheStigma