In one of our most heartfelt and difficult conversations, we talk with Fire Captain Scott Shaunfield about what it’s like to arrive on the scene of a suicide. First Responders’ jobs include responding to everything from burning buildings, car wrecks, and even suicide attempts. When a First Responder gets physically injured in the line of duty there is worker’s compensation to help them get the care they need to physically heal. Psychological wounds are just as damaging, but much less likely to be covered in a traditional model of care. Responding to a suicide is a traumatic event for First Responders and often leaves a lasting effect. Additionally, there is a cumulative toll to experiencing so many different suicides and suicide attempts that puts First Responders at a greater risk for suicide themselves. 

Captain Shaunfield shares how he vividly remembers the first suicide he ever encountered as a First Responder. He discusses what it’s like as a Firefighter to have to hold the memories of all the tragedies you’ve seen. The impact sticks with you well after your shift has ended. He talks about how, in addition to all the trauma he has seen on the job, his personal life has also been touched by suicide. Captain Shaunfield candidly describes the lasting impact of suicide. He asks, “As a professional rescuer shouldn’t I have been able to rescue those that I loved?” The guilt and pain that occurs after losing someone to suicide affects First Responders too. Despite what you may think, seeing such tragedy never just becomes a part of the job. For more on the toll it takes, check out this week’s blog, You Never “Get Used To It”: First Responders & Suicide Attempts.