Feeling “off” but can’t explain why? This episode unpacks the hidden signs of long-term traumatic stress in first responders and frontline workers—and what you can do about it.

Are you more irritable, distant, or emotionally numb than you used to be?

You might think it’s just burnout, but what if it’s something deeper—like long-term traumatic stress?

If stress is piling up and showing up in unexpected ways, this episode will help you recognize the signs and take the first step toward healing.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• • The difference between everyday stress and long-term traumatic stress
  • Real-life symptoms you might be ignoring—mental, emotional, behavioral, and physical
• • Five practical steps to get out of survival mode and start healing
    

  You’re not broken—and you’re not alone. This conversation could be the first step toward reclaiming your health and humanity.
  CONNECT WITH BART: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook

• OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

  Email: info@stresscaredoc.com

• Website: StressCareDoc.com

Coming home after a tough shift and still feeling “on the clock”?

Today’s episode breaks down practical strategies to create boundaries between work and home, helping first responders reclaim personal time and be fully present for what matters most.

Have you ever felt like work stress follows you home?

It’s all too common for first responders and frontline professionals to replay calls, zone out, or snap at loved ones after a shift. Ignoring this problem can lead to burnout, strained relationships, and even physical health issues.

But here’s the good news: You can set healthy boundaries between work and home life. In this episode, I’ll guide you through practical, actionable steps to help you integrate work and personal life in a sustainable way—so you can thrive at both.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• How to decompress and transition from work mode to home mode.

• The power of creating a “transition ritual” and how it can change your mindset.

• Proven techniques to set limits on work texts, phone calls, and distractions at home.

Healthy boundaries allow you to show up fully—not just for work but for the people who matter most in your life.

CONNECT WITH BART: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

The 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique: Episode 28: Finding Calm in the Chaos

Transition Ritual Guide: Episode 1: Snapping at Your Family After Shift? Try This

Do negative thoughts play over and over in your head after a tough call, wondering what you could’ve done differently?

It’s easy to fall into a cycle of self-criticism that erodes your confidence and makes it hard to move forward. That nagging voice in your head can feel like a constant weight pulling you down.

But what if there was a way to break that loop and rewrite those stories? Cognitive Reframing can help you process those experiences in a healthier, more balanced way.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

• How to identify and challenge negative thoughts.

• A step-by-step process to reframe those thoughts into opportunities for growth.

• Practical tips to apply this skill in real-time.

Negative thoughts don’t have to control your narrative. Shift your perspective and discover how to turn tough experiences into catalysts for growth.

Liked this episode? Share it with someone who needs it! Don’t forget to leave a review and subscribe for more actionable strategies.

Connect with Dr. Bart J. Leger:

Website: The Stress Care Doc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartleger/
Facebook: @stresscaredoc