July 26th, 2024
Mike Worthen is transforming the conversation surrounding how first responders address their own mental health challenges. By sharing his personal struggles, he underscores the importance of a compassionate and understanding approach.
“I didn’t know how to cope with the mental and emotional pain,” Worthen admitted to News 3’s Marie Mortera. “I didn’t know how to talk to someone and release that burden.”
When first responders address their own mental health challenges, their struggles can evolve into personal growth. Worthen recalls a time when his thoughts turned dark: “I hoped that I’d either drink myself to death or simply not be here anymore.” Fortunately, a pivotal decision interrupted this cycle.
“Getting clean was just one part of the journey. The other was being vulnerable enough to talk to someone and open up about what I was experiencing,” he shared. “As first responders, we struggle with expressing our emotions because we don’t want to be seen as weak or burden others with our problems.”
Now, in classroom settings, Worthen teaches both veteran and new first responders vital lessons in resilience. He emphasizes that it’s okay not to feel okay, they are never alone, and civilians can play a crucial role in this support system. By fostering a safe space for open dialogue, Mike Worthen is helping to break down the barriers that have stopped our first responders in seeking soultions for thier own mental health concerns.
Tags: First Responers, mental health, Mike Worthen
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