Building Inner Strength to Handle Stressful Calls
- arfbaba73
- Feb 16
- 2 min read
There are moments on duty that cut deeper than we anticipate. Delivering a death notification, witnessing the aftermath of a domestic violence incident with a fatal outcome, or finding yourself amidst the chaos of a mass-casualty collision—these events push us to our limits. They force us to confront our humanity while demanding levels of composure and decision-making that many can’t imagine. These situations demand something we rarely actively prepare for:
inner strength.
Inner strength doesn’t appear in the moment of crisis; it’s cultivated long before. It’s rooted in how we process our thoughts, regulate our emotions, and prepare ourselves for the unpredictable. In the heat of a critical incident, there’s little time to think. Clarity and control are vital, even as the weight of what’s happening presses down on us.
But the hardest part often comes after the incident, once the adrenaline fades and reality sets in. The images, sounds, and emotions linger, often longer than we’d like. In these moments, inner strength becomes our anchor.
It’s not about numbing ourselves but learning how to feel without being overwhelmed. It’s about acknowledging our humanity while building resilience to carry on.
How can we prepare for these situations without breaking under their weight? The answer lies in small, consistent efforts to strengthen ourselves. It’s about adopting practices that reinforce our mental and emotional resilience.
Learning to regulate our breathing during escalated moments can keep us grounded. Taking the time to debrief with a trusted colleague after a call can provide relief. Incorporating techniques to reframe or manage difficult memories can offer long-term benefits. And sometimes, it’s about seeking professional help before the weight becomes too much to bear.
Building inner strength isn’t a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing process of learning to care for ourselves while continuing to serve others. It’s about recognizing that being strong for others starts with being strong for yourself.
If you’re ready to build your inner strength and face the challenges of your work with greater resilience, I’m here to help. Book your personal coaching session today through my website.
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