What are some warning signs
Every person has a different base line of who they are as a person. Therefore, if someone is typically very quiet, just because they are quiet or reserved doesn't mean there is an issue. The "warning signs" are when someone changes from whatever their normal is to something different. There is no exact list to check off but these are the more common changes in behaviour that we would encourage you to get some additional support.
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Your GP should be the first point of call. Click here to find out what other resources may be available to you or your family.
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What if I recognise these signs in someone you, love work with or care about?
Perhaps it is time to have a wellbeing conversation. By initiating a conversation and listening you can create an opportunity to encourage someone to seek help if needed. Being prepared including having a understanding of external support services is beneficial. The video on the right is from Mental Health Foundation of NZ, giving information on how to talk about mental health in the work place. |
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What are some of the common challenges we have
Work RELATED CHALLENGES
Potential stressors experienced in the workplace, which are separate from the attendance of emergency callouts and critical incidents, examples include;
a worker perceiving that their organization does not value their contributions and/or wellbeing;
work overload, time pressures, actual or threatened job loss, bullying, personality conflicts.
a worker perceiving that their organization does not value their contributions and/or wellbeing;
work overload, time pressures, actual or threatened job loss, bullying, personality conflicts.
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Acute Stress Disorder
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Work Place Bulling / Harassment
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Personality Clashes
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Organisational Work Stress
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Acute Stress Disorder order is ......
An acute stress disorder is when symptoms might occur during the month following a traumatic event and then lessen and disappear within a few weeks.
Normal behaviors you may experience after an event are.....
It is common to have recurrent thoughts, images, nightmares and memories in the first few days following exposure to a traumatic event, as people process what happened, and seek to move forward.
If these behaviors become.......
However, unpleasant feelings associated with exposure to trauma sometimes keep coming back along with recurrent images, intrusive thoughts, nightmares or bad dreams. People may feel that it’s all happening again or have brief but vivid memories or “flashbacks”.
Then you should.......
Reach out to a professional to help you work through this. FENZ has a wide range of support for what ever you feel comfortable with. Most work places will have some sort of mental health support program.
Reference:
FENZ - Psychological Wellbeing
An acute stress disorder is when symptoms might occur during the month following a traumatic event and then lessen and disappear within a few weeks.
Normal behaviors you may experience after an event are.....
It is common to have recurrent thoughts, images, nightmares and memories in the first few days following exposure to a traumatic event, as people process what happened, and seek to move forward.
If these behaviors become.......
However, unpleasant feelings associated with exposure to trauma sometimes keep coming back along with recurrent images, intrusive thoughts, nightmares or bad dreams. People may feel that it’s all happening again or have brief but vivid memories or “flashbacks”.
Then you should.......
Reach out to a professional to help you work through this. FENZ has a wide range of support for what ever you feel comfortable with. Most work places will have some sort of mental health support program.
Reference:
FENZ - Psychological Wellbeing
What is Work Place Bullying/ Harassment is.......
Bullying is defined as repeated and unreasonable behavior directed towards another person or a group of people that can lead to physical or psychological harm;
Are my behaviors still acceptable; ......
As society and culture changes, you can find what was once considered acceptable behavior, is now not. You can find your self in a position, through no malice intent that you have offended someone or hurt them.
These behaviors are considered acceptable
• Friendly banter and mutually acceptable jokes and compliments
• Issuing reasonable instructions in an appropriate manner for the situation and expecting them to
be carried out
• Warnings and disciplines in line with Fire and Emergency policy
• Insistence of high standards of performance
• Constructive feedback requiring justifiable performance improvement
• Assertively expressing opinions different from others (not expressed in a hostile, exclusionary way)
• Free and frank discussions about issues or concerns without personal insults.
What processes this there for me.......
FENZ has a processes that has a goal to deal with any issue at the lowest possible level. This processes has a number of accesses points and a number of support channels that suit any situation.
What Support is their for me......
Regardless of what side of the coin you are there is a range of support available to you.
You can get help and advice from others such as managers, colleages, Health and Safety Representatives
(HSRs), your union or association, your local Community Law Centre or Citizens Advice Bureau, EAP,
helplines, or our Human Resources team for policy and process advice and guidance.
https://positiveworkplace.fireandemergency.nz/
Reference:
FENZ - Positive Work Place
State Service Commission of NZ
Bullying is defined as repeated and unreasonable behavior directed towards another person or a group of people that can lead to physical or psychological harm;
- Repeated behavior is persistent and can involve a range of actions over time.
- Unreasonable behavior means actions that a reasonable person wouldn't do in similar circumstances. It includes victimising, humiliating, intimidating or threatening a person.
Are my behaviors still acceptable; ......
As society and culture changes, you can find what was once considered acceptable behavior, is now not. You can find your self in a position, through no malice intent that you have offended someone or hurt them.
These behaviors are considered acceptable
• Friendly banter and mutually acceptable jokes and compliments
• Issuing reasonable instructions in an appropriate manner for the situation and expecting them to
be carried out
• Warnings and disciplines in line with Fire and Emergency policy
• Insistence of high standards of performance
• Constructive feedback requiring justifiable performance improvement
• Assertively expressing opinions different from others (not expressed in a hostile, exclusionary way)
• Free and frank discussions about issues or concerns without personal insults.
What processes this there for me.......
FENZ has a processes that has a goal to deal with any issue at the lowest possible level. This processes has a number of accesses points and a number of support channels that suit any situation.
What Support is their for me......
Regardless of what side of the coin you are there is a range of support available to you.
You can get help and advice from others such as managers, colleages, Health and Safety Representatives
(HSRs), your union or association, your local Community Law Centre or Citizens Advice Bureau, EAP,
helplines, or our Human Resources team for policy and process advice and guidance.
https://positiveworkplace.fireandemergency.nz/
Reference:
FENZ - Positive Work Place
State Service Commission of NZ
Why are we talking Personality Clashes.......
Personality Clashes are part of day to day life and are normal. We are all unique and different, this is fine. We need to remember, that we will have conflict and differences of opinions.
It is about being respectful of each other and our opinions. Together we will get through with communication. If these are managed well, this doesn't need to be anything more than supporting different sporting teams.
Tips on Handling a personality clash
Reference:
https://blink.ucsd.edu/HR/supervising/conflict/handle.html#3.-Listen-carefully.
Personality Clashes are part of day to day life and are normal. We are all unique and different, this is fine. We need to remember, that we will have conflict and differences of opinions.
It is about being respectful of each other and our opinions. Together we will get through with communication. If these are managed well, this doesn't need to be anything more than supporting different sporting teams.
Tips on Handling a personality clash
- Talk with the other person. ...
- Focus on behavior and events, not on personalities. ...
- Listen carefully. ...
- Identify points of agreement and disagreement. ...
- Prioritize the areas of conflict. ...
- Develop a plan to work on each conflict. ...
- Follow through on your plan. ...
- Build on your success.
- Be RESPECTFUL
Reference:
https://blink.ucsd.edu/HR/supervising/conflict/handle.html#3.-Listen-carefully.
Workplace stress is the harmful physical and emotional responses that can happen when there is a conflict between job demands on the employee and the amount of control an employee has over meeting these demands. This is often linked to some form of change. The World Health Organisation breaks work stress in to two main categories.
Work contents includes - job content (monotony, under-stimulation, meaningless of tasks, lack of variety, etc) - work load and work pace (too much or too little to do, work under time pressure, etc.) - working hours (strict or inflexible, long and unsocial, unpredictable, badly designed shift systems) - Participation and control (lack of participation in decision-making, lack of control over work processes, pace, hours, methods, and the work environment)
Work context includes - career development, status and pay (job insecurity, lack of promotion opportunities, under- or over-promotion, work of 'low social value', piece rate payment schemes, unclear or unfair performance evaluation systems, being over- or under-skilled for a job) - role in the organization (unclear role, conflicting roles) - interpersonal relationships (inadequate, inconsiderate or unsupported supervision, poor relationships with colleagues, bullying/harassment and violence, isolated or solitary work, etc) -organizational culture (poor communication, poor leadership, lack of behavioral rule, lack of clarity about organizational objectives, structures and strategies) - work-life balance (conflicting demands of work and home, lack of support for domestic problems at work, lack of support for work problems at home, lack of organizational rules and policies to support work-life balance)
There is often confusion between challenge and stress in the workplace. While challenge at work can have positive effects on people, work-related stress is a work-related health issue that can pose risks to psychological and physical health.
Reffernce:
https://www.who.int/occupational_health/topics/stressatwp/en/
Work contents includes - job content (monotony, under-stimulation, meaningless of tasks, lack of variety, etc) - work load and work pace (too much or too little to do, work under time pressure, etc.) - working hours (strict or inflexible, long and unsocial, unpredictable, badly designed shift systems) - Participation and control (lack of participation in decision-making, lack of control over work processes, pace, hours, methods, and the work environment)
Work context includes - career development, status and pay (job insecurity, lack of promotion opportunities, under- or over-promotion, work of 'low social value', piece rate payment schemes, unclear or unfair performance evaluation systems, being over- or under-skilled for a job) - role in the organization (unclear role, conflicting roles) - interpersonal relationships (inadequate, inconsiderate or unsupported supervision, poor relationships with colleagues, bullying/harassment and violence, isolated or solitary work, etc) -organizational culture (poor communication, poor leadership, lack of behavioral rule, lack of clarity about organizational objectives, structures and strategies) - work-life balance (conflicting demands of work and home, lack of support for domestic problems at work, lack of support for work problems at home, lack of organizational rules and policies to support work-life balance)
There is often confusion between challenge and stress in the workplace. While challenge at work can have positive effects on people, work-related stress is a work-related health issue that can pose risks to psychological and physical health.
Reffernce:
https://www.who.int/occupational_health/topics/stressatwp/en/
Home Based CHALLENGES
Refer to stressors that occur beyond the scope of the critical incident and workplace environment. Examples include; marital conflict, moving home, relationship conflict, family disruption, financial distress, personal sickness and injury, death, sickness or death of a significant other.
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Relationship
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Financial
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Children
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Health
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What are the main types of Relationships.....
Why is staying connected important......
Regardless of the type of relationship, staying connected and talking is important. You improve your own mental health and that of the person you are connecting with too.
How about arguments with my partner......
You are always going to have disagreements over something and this is normal. Sometimes we find we are just not connecting, are on different pages or what we want out of life has changed. Regardless of the situation, it is important you are respectful of the person. We know we can handle most challenges ourselves, but sometimes reaching out for some extra support (or Perspective) can go along way. This can be anything from a yarn with a mate to relationship counselling. Its OK not to be the best at everything and get some support along the way.
It’s important to recognise that loneliness is different from solitude. Feeling lonely is a problem, but being alone may not be a problem at all. Many people live alone and have happy, fulfilling lives.
https://www.relationships.org.nz/
https://nzfvc.org.nz/
http://www.areyouok.org.nz/
- Intimate connections – with people who love and care for you, such as family and friends.
- Relational connections – with people who you see regularly and share an interest with,
such as workmates or those who serve your morning coffee. - Collective connections – with people who share a group membership or an affiliation with you,
such as people who vote like you do, or people who have the same faith.
Why is staying connected important......
Regardless of the type of relationship, staying connected and talking is important. You improve your own mental health and that of the person you are connecting with too.
How about arguments with my partner......
You are always going to have disagreements over something and this is normal. Sometimes we find we are just not connecting, are on different pages or what we want out of life has changed. Regardless of the situation, it is important you are respectful of the person. We know we can handle most challenges ourselves, but sometimes reaching out for some extra support (or Perspective) can go along way. This can be anything from a yarn with a mate to relationship counselling. Its OK not to be the best at everything and get some support along the way.
It’s important to recognise that loneliness is different from solitude. Feeling lonely is a problem, but being alone may not be a problem at all. Many people live alone and have happy, fulfilling lives.
https://www.relationships.org.nz/
https://nzfvc.org.nz/
http://www.areyouok.org.nz/
What is Financial Stress.......
Financial stress is the same as other stresses but the main pressure is the financial position. If we can identify what the main courses of stress are, you can work through them.
What can I do about my finances......
While you may not be able to get a pay-rise in a hurry, there are a number of resources that maybe able
to help. You can use some great FREE online tools, that should help with a majority of financial pressures.
sorted.org.nz - https://www.moneytalks.co.nz/ - https://www.interest.co.nz/
If you have a more complicated situation, it may be best to pay to seek professional advice. Chartered Accountants are held to a higher level of professional advice than other Financial Advisers.
What can I do to help me.......
The affects of stress can also be physical. Most of the best tips to reduce these affects are the same for general mental health. Stay Connected, Keep Giving, Keep Learning, Be Active & Take Notice.
It is also worth inquiring what you may also be eligible for through the new Volunteers incentives or talking
to the NZFCU about refinancing or consultation.
https://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/assets/ResourceFinder/coping-with-financial-stress.pdf
Financial stress is the same as other stresses but the main pressure is the financial position. If we can identify what the main courses of stress are, you can work through them.
What can I do about my finances......
While you may not be able to get a pay-rise in a hurry, there are a number of resources that maybe able
to help. You can use some great FREE online tools, that should help with a majority of financial pressures.
sorted.org.nz - https://www.moneytalks.co.nz/ - https://www.interest.co.nz/
If you have a more complicated situation, it may be best to pay to seek professional advice. Chartered Accountants are held to a higher level of professional advice than other Financial Advisers.
What can I do to help me.......
The affects of stress can also be physical. Most of the best tips to reduce these affects are the same for general mental health. Stay Connected, Keep Giving, Keep Learning, Be Active & Take Notice.
It is also worth inquiring what you may also be eligible for through the new Volunteers incentives or talking
to the NZFCU about refinancing or consultation.
https://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/assets/ResourceFinder/coping-with-financial-stress.pdf
Why are Children Challenging.......
Anyone with a child will understand that children bring an amasing scene of joy into our lives. They also have an ability to make everyday tasks so much harder, especially if we are already dealing with work or home-based stressors. We must remember that our children will often be oblivious to the fact we have had a bad day, they will however be sensitive to the way we react and the emotions we display. Our own emotional state will often dictate their own emotions and behaviours. Children prosper with a loving, nurturing environment, it is up to us to ensure they receive all of the care, guidance and support we can offer.
How can we cope with children......
As mentioned our children need us there as their rock, at times we may feel the task is just too great. It is ok to ask for help, to take time out for ourselves. It is important to remember when helping anyone we need to first make sure that we are in the right frame of mind ourselves, this is no different when
it comes to our children. If practical sometimes a night off may be beneficial to not only you but also the child. If appropriate can a sleep over be arranged with a friend or a family member, don’t forget that you need space to relax and reflect.
You are more than likely doing a great job but seeking advice may help support you and give you the peace
of mind needed. Consider these guidance and support services;
www.parenthelp.org.nz
www.skylight.org.nz General Parenting Support; Tips for Parents- free resources about raising children
in New Zealand- Understanding child traumatic stress
www.parentscentre.org.nz Dealing with stress in the home
Anyone with a child will understand that children bring an amasing scene of joy into our lives. They also have an ability to make everyday tasks so much harder, especially if we are already dealing with work or home-based stressors. We must remember that our children will often be oblivious to the fact we have had a bad day, they will however be sensitive to the way we react and the emotions we display. Our own emotional state will often dictate their own emotions and behaviours. Children prosper with a loving, nurturing environment, it is up to us to ensure they receive all of the care, guidance and support we can offer.
How can we cope with children......
As mentioned our children need us there as their rock, at times we may feel the task is just too great. It is ok to ask for help, to take time out for ourselves. It is important to remember when helping anyone we need to first make sure that we are in the right frame of mind ourselves, this is no different when
it comes to our children. If practical sometimes a night off may be beneficial to not only you but also the child. If appropriate can a sleep over be arranged with a friend or a family member, don’t forget that you need space to relax and reflect.
You are more than likely doing a great job but seeking advice may help support you and give you the peace
of mind needed. Consider these guidance and support services;
www.parenthelp.org.nz
www.skylight.org.nz General Parenting Support; Tips for Parents- free resources about raising children
in New Zealand- Understanding child traumatic stress
www.parentscentre.org.nz Dealing with stress in the home
Health
Just like it is demonstrated in the health model Te Whare Tapa Wha and the Five Ways to Well-being our physical and psychological health are deeply connected. Click here to find our more about these principles
It is proven that regular exercise causes our body to release hormone called endorphins. These endorphins
are what create a sense of happiness and euphoria. Endorphins aid in the relief of depression and anxiety and therefore, the boosting of our overall mood. They also improve our self-confidence.
We all understand regular exercise is important, but do we really understand just how important it is?
Just like it is demonstrated in the health model Te Whare Tapa Wha and the Five Ways to Well-being our physical and psychological health are deeply connected. Click here to find our more about these principles
It is proven that regular exercise causes our body to release hormone called endorphins. These endorphins
are what create a sense of happiness and euphoria. Endorphins aid in the relief of depression and anxiety and therefore, the boosting of our overall mood. They also improve our self-confidence.
We all understand regular exercise is important, but do we really understand just how important it is?
There are two ways to support the good work of the Welfare Society.
Become a member, or make a donation.
Become a member, or make a donation.
Firefighters Helping Firefighters and their Families awhi atu awhi mai ō rātou whānau