Burnout. Stress. Demoralization. Chances are that people will experience these at some point in their life. But, first responders, medical professionals, teachers and nonprofit employees that often witness trauma in the workplace are continually and commonly reporting higher levels of these conditions, according to SRQ Magazine. And that was before the pandemic added a new level of stress to those on the frontlines.
According to community surveys, 74.6% of respondents now say that their job has become significantly harder since COVID-19.
Where Resilient Retreat Steps In
Over the last 18 months, the Resilient Retreat has been helping those impacted by second-hand trauma and abuse, with the number of people being served having jumped by 196%. And recently, the organization announced funding from Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation that would help ramp up their therapies and programs for those in need.
“Those whose take care of our community deserve to be taken care of,” says Teri A Hansen, President & CEO of Barancik Foundation. “For too long the burden has been on the individual to help themself cope. Now these programs will help facilitate healing and reduce burnout.”
The $125,000 grant from the Barancik Foundation will fund a second phase of Resilient Retreat’s neurofeedback program, which will offer services to 21 responders and healthcare professionals. The therapy, according Resilient Retreat, is a leading treatment for reducing the symptoms of traumatic stress and can decrease anxiety, reduce substance abuse, and improve memory, concentration and wellness.
The organization will also use this grant to hire an additional staff member, Candice McLeod, to provide input on program development, organize the Resilient Retreat network of over 150 community volunteers, as well as increase trauma-informed training at workplaces.
“Employers now better understand the factors that lead to burnout and emotional exhaustion,” says Lisa Intagliata, Executive Director of Resilient Retreat. “Led by certified trauma professionals, our free programs are helping people heal from the impacts of stress and trauma on their mind, body, and spirit.”
More information about the Resilience Retreat can be accessed here.
