Mental health resources for forestry and wildfire professionals: strategies for coping with stress, grief and burnout

The holiday season is a time of tradition and togetherness, but for many—including forestry and wildfire professionals— this time of year can be emotionally complex. While surrounded by joyful holiday celebrations, some may wrestle with grief over colleagues lost in the line of duty, feel the weight of the year’s trials, or experience exhaustion and burnout after months of hard work.

This year, the emotional challenges of the season may be more pronounced in the wake of the 2024 hurricane season. Along with the usual stresses of their work, many southern forestry and wildfire professionals have had to endure the personal toll of storm impacts to their own homes and families, while also bearing the immense responsibility of responding to disasters, supporting devastated communities and managing complex cleanup efforts. These compounded experiences can weigh heavily during what is already a reflective and emotionally charged time of year.

To address these challenges, the Southeast Regional Strategy Committee for Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy has developed the Employee Emotional & Mental Health Awareness Resource Guide for the Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF). The guide serves as a comprehensive tool designed to help those in the forestry and wildfire sector navigate the unique emotional and psychological demands of their work. This guide is not just for the holidays, though—it’s a year-round resource for fostering resilience and creating a culture of support.

The Emotional Landscape of Forestry and Wildfire

Forestry and wildfire professionals work in some of the most challenging and high-stakes settings imaginable. The physical demands, coupled with the responsibility of protecting lives, property and natural resources, can often create stress that lingers long after the workday ends.

One of the most significant emotional challenges in this field, however, is the tragedy of loss. Losing a colleague in the line of duty is an all-too-familiar reality for many in this profession. The Mental Health Resource Guide acknowledges these realities and provides practical tools to address the feelings and challenges associated grief and loss.

Strategies for Navigating the Holidays

While the holiday season offers a chance to pause and reflect, it may also stir up emotions that are difficult to face. The Mental Health Resource Guide offers several strategies tailored to forestry and wildfire professionals for managing these challenges, including:

Recognizing and Processing Grief

• Acknowledge hard feelings: It’s valid to feel sadness, loss or even anger during the holidays. These emotions deserve attention.
• Honor lost colleagues: Find ways to commemorate those who are no longer with us, whether through quiet reflection, sharing memories with others or participating in group memorials.
• Seek support: Talk to trusted peers, mentors or professionals who can provide a safe environment to process your grief. Remember, these feelings are not uncommon and you’re not alone.

Managing Holiday Stress

• Take care of your body: Stress can take a toll physically as well as emotionally. Prioritize rest, stay hydrated and nourish your body with balanced meals.
• Set realistic expectations: Understand that the holidays may not look like the model Hallmark movie – and that’s okay. Focus on what’s meaningful to you, not what others expect.
• Practice mindfulness: Ground yourself in the present moment through meditation, deep breathing or simply stepping outside to connect with nature.

Creating Connection amid Isolation

• Lean on your community: Even if you can’t be with family or close friends in-person, your colleagues can be a vital source of support and camaraderie.
• Reach out proactively: Make time for phone calls or video chats with loved ones to create a sense of connection, even from afar.

Long-Term Mental Health Practices

The mental health needs of forestry and wildfire professionals extend beyond the holiday season and throughout the year. The Mental Health Resource Guide provides tools for building resilience and fostering long-term wellness both individually and amongst colleagues:

Building Emotional Resilience

• Practice gratitude: Reflect on what you’re thankful for, even during tough times. Gratitude can help shift your mindset toward positivity.
• Focus on small victories: Celebrate small wins in your work and personal life. They’re often more meaningful than we realize.
• Take care of yourself: Whether it’s spending time outdoors, reading a book or engaging in a hobby, make space for activities that replenish your energy.

Fostering a Supportive Work Culture

• Check in with colleagues: Regularly ask your teammates how they’re doing and share your own experiences to normalize conversations about mental health.
• Encourage openness: Encourage a workplace culture where it’s okay to seek help without fear of judgment.
• Provide resources: Share the Mental Health Resource Guide with your team as a step toward creating a supportive environment.

Recognizing the Signs of Struggle in Others

• Look for changes in behavior, mood or performance that might indicate someone is struggling.
• Be proactive in offering support and directing colleagues to resources, like those listed within the mental health resource guide, that can help them manage challenges.

Using the SGSF Mental Health Resource Guide

The Mental Health Resource Guide was created to serve as a practical and accessible tool for forestry and wildfire professionals. In addition to strategies for managing stress and grief, the guide includes:

• Assessment tools for recognizing burnout, anxiety and other mental health challenges.
• Information on professional support services, including an extensive list of available national and state-specific hotlines and counseling programs tailored to first responders.
• Advice for creating peer support networks to foster resilience and connection.

This guide is a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical safety. By using and sharing the guide, our forestry and wildfire community can take proactive steps to support themselves and their colleagues. This holiday season, let’s take time to support one another, reflect on our shared experiences and honor those we’ve lost.

Mental health is not a solitary journey. It’s something we can all address together. Whether it’s through a simple conversation, sharing resources like the Mental Health Resource Guide or encouraging workplace wellness initiatives, every step helps build a stronger, healthier community.