Coping With BurnoutCoping With Burnout
Doc Jacques: Your Addiction Lifeguard
Ashlea Dillard discusses her journey from firefighting to counselling, addressing burnout and compassion fatigue in first responders.
48:26•4 Nov 2025
When Rescuers Need Rescuing: Burnout in First Responders
Episode Overview
- Burnout and compassion fatigue are common in high-stress jobs like firefighting.
- Adrenaline addiction can manifest as seeking thrills outside of work.
- Support systems are crucial for both first responders and their families.
- Therapy doesn't have to be traditional; explore various modalities.
- Self-awareness and willingness to seek help are key to recovery.
“Isolation is addiction's best friend.”
How do first responders cope with the emotional toll of their high-stakes jobs? In this episode of 'Doc Jacques: Your Addiction Lifeguard,' Dr. Jacques de Broekert welcomes Ashlea Dillard, a retired firefighter turned mental health counsellor, to tackle this pressing issue. Ashlea shares her personal journey from the firehouse to the therapist's office, highlighting the hidden struggles of compassion fatigue and burnout.
As she recounts her experiences, Ashlea opens up about the often invisible changes that occur when you're constantly exposed to trauma. It's not all doom and gloom, though—there's a light-hearted look at how adrenaline junkies find new thrills outside of work. The conversation also explores the critical need for support systems, both for first responders and their families, who often bear the brunt of secondary trauma.
With a mix of humour and heartfelt advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of burnout and recovery in high-pressure careers. So, what can we learn from those who have faced the flames and come out stronger on the other side?
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