Coping with Holiday Stress: Real Stories & Tips for First Responder Families
When The Call Hits Home
Hosts:
Dr. Ashlee Gethner, LCSW – Child of a Police Officer
Jennifer Woosley Saylor, LPCC S – Child of a Police Officer
With the holiday season in full swing, your hosts dive deep into what this time of year really means for first responders and their families. Balancing the unique demands, the heightened emotions, and the challenge of staying present, this conversation acknowledges both the joys and difficulties of navigating the holidays when the call hits home, literally.
In This Episode:
Holiday Stress & Setting Boundaries
The Ashlee & Jennifer open up about the overwhelming expectations and demands that often come with the holidays. With a reminder that sometimes, it’s healthy (and important) to say “no” and prioritize what truly matters.
First Responders’ Unique Holiday Experience
Not every family gets to gather together during the holidays, especially when a loved one is on duty. Jennifer and Ashlee discuss how the holiday season impacts first responders, from missing family traditions to working through emotionally difficult calls.
Grief & Tragedy During the Holidays
Jennifer & Ashlee explore the pain of spending holidays without loved ones and how traumatic calls on significant days can permanently change their meaning. They share both personal stories and insights from therapy, normalizing complicated feelings that often surface this time of year.
Honoring Positive Moments
It’s not all heavy! The episode highlights uplifting traditions like “Shop with a Cop” and the positive impact first responders make in their communities, reminding us of the good at the heart of the season.
Mental Health, Guilt & Self-Care
Ashlee and Jennifer dive into the guilt many feel, whether it's from not doing “enough” or not being present with family. If you’re struggling, they strongly encourage seeking support and normalizing reaching out for therapy, especially when holiday pressure mounts.
Practical Tips for Staying Present
Put down the phones, real connection starts with being fully there with your loved ones.
Build new traditions, whether you’re at home or on shift.
Take intentional breaks and give yourself permission to slow down, even if it means missing a party or two.
Supporting the Whole Family
This episode acknowledges the hidden load on partners and family at home, and the importance of recognizing and appreciating each person’s contributions during this season.
Creating New Traditions
Whether it’s puzzles, football, or unique celebrations, the hosts challenge listeners, especially first responders to find new ways to create joyful, meaningful connections, even if plans (or locations) look different this year.
Navigating Substance Use Concerns
Special note about the extra challenges for those managing sobriety through the holidays, acknowledging the prevalence of substance use and emphasizing the power of planning ahead and asking for support.
Listener Challenge:
What new tradition or small act of presence can you create with your loved ones this holiday season? Share your stories and holiday photos with the show!
Final Thoughts:
You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or even disconnected this holiday season. Let’s give ourselves (and each other) the grace to acknowledge our real experiences and find moments of joy and connection where we can. Happy holidays from Jennifer, Ashlee, and the whole WTCHH team!
Don’t Forget
Shop the merch store for some WTCHH swag!
Stay tuned for exciting announcements and new episodes in the new year.
If this episode resonated with you, please share your thoughts and stories with us - we love hearing from you!
For questions or more info, reach out to the hosts, and remember: When the call hits home, Jennifer and Ashlee are here for you.
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