Dr. Virginia Loewenstine, CEO and medical director of Tristate Preventive Health, answers your questions
Q: How do I handle receiving a serious medical diagnosis? Should I keep it private or not? Who should I tell? Why is it so hard to tell people about it? I feel like a failure …
A: Feeling like a failure is understandable. But it’s far from accurate. Firefighters are responsible for helping others/strangers, and sometimes forget they’re human, too. It’s often difficult to tell others and ask for help because the tables are now turned and you’re the affected person. This can be very uncomfortable.
It’s your choice who to tell and when, with the exception of your spouse or significant other and your chief. He/she will need to know because of the medical parameters associated with firefighting.
Then start by telling the people in your inner circle and work outward. Realize they, too, will be adjusting to what the future may be. If talking to your spouse/significant other feels awkward and you’re uncertain about what to say, reach out to a mental health provider for guidance. They can be a valuable resource for you and your family, both short and long-term.
And never be shy to ask for help, whether it’s getting someone to mow the lawn or take you to medical appointments. People will be more than grateful to have the chance to do whatever they can during this time.
