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In this episode of After the Tones Drop, we share the powerful story of Chris, a deputy chief with over 30 years in the fire service, and his wife Tara, an educator with a 25-year career. Their journey has been marked by the challenges of a demanding career, mental health struggles, and the strength needed to maintain their marriage and family. Chris’s mental health struggles peaked in 2021 when he found himself on the brink of suicide. An unexpected comment from Tara and an intervention by their son and a park ranger saved his life, leading Chris to begin a journey of recovery and a mission to help other first responders avoid the same darkness. Tara shares her perspective as the supportive spouse, recognizing the signs of distress and standing by Chris through every step of his recovery.
The couple discusses how the support Chris received at the Center of Excellence became a turning point, highlighting the power of connection and understanding. They emphasize that healing is an ongoing process, not a quick fix, and share the continuous efforts needed to maintain wellness after treatment. Chris and Tara offer practical advice for first responders and their families, stressing the importance of early conversations and strong support systems.
Their story is a testament to resilience, love, and the importance of community. Whether you're a first responder, a spouse, or connected to the emergency services community, this episode offers hope and insight. Check out the Copper Warrior program for support at copperwarrior.com and explore recommended reads like Fully Involved by Mynda Ohs and First Responder Families by Tanya Glenn for more guidance. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and share this inspiring story.
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DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):
First Responder Wife
I am wife to a Deputy Fire Chief (30+ years in first responder service) and married for 26 years. I have 2 children- Noah is a Sheriff's Deputy and Riley is going to college to become a Physician's Assistant. I have worked in education for 25 years as a teacher, assistant principal, principal and now supervisor. I grew up in a family of first responders - my father, grandfather and both brothers served as volunteer firefighters and one of my brothers is currently a Maryland State Fire Marshal. Smashing the stigma behind first responder mental health and well-being is a priority for me and my family.
Deputy Chief
I am a Deputy Chief with the Salisbury Fire Department in Salisbury, MD. I have been in the Fire Service for about 33 years. I am married to my wife of 26 years, Tara, and together we have raised two children. Our son Noah is 24 , and works as a Deputy with the Wicomico County Sheriffs Office. Our daughter Riley, who is 19 and attending Salisbury University with dreams to become a Physician Assistant. I just spoke at the 1st responders Conference in Ocean City, MD about my battle with mental health that led to my suicide attempt in September of 2021. After years of suppressing traumatic incidents both as a child and from the job, a call on September 10, 2018 involving a 16 year old girl who hung herself behind a playground of a local elementary school, triggered a flood of memories from previous events, thought to have been dealt with, to once again return in my mind. After 3 years of trying to "cope" with these traumatic events in the only way I knew how, I had reached my rock bottom and decided to end my own life. That clearly did not happen, but I did spend 45 days in the IAFF Center of Excellence where I was diagnosed with PTSD, severe depression, alcohol abuse disorder, and anxiety.
