Introduction

As the outdoor guiding community nears the end of their busy season, it's a time for reflection on the experiences of adventure, excitement, and energy that have characterized their work. Picture an outdoor guide navigating through rugged landscapes, leading courageous individuals on thrilling journeys filled with adrenaline and awe. But behind the scenes, this exhilarating season may have also included moments of fear, loss, and intense physiological stress and anxiety.

Outdoor guides are unsung heroes who bring the wonders of nature to others, ensuring unforgettable experiences. Throughout the season, they operate at full throttle, pouring their energy and expertise into creating unforgettable adventures. However, as the season comes to a sudden stop, transitioning from the fast-paced nature of their work to a slower pace of life can be challenging.

The shift from constant movement and vibrant encounters with nature to a sudden halt can be likened to a jet aircraft going from full speed to landing. Just as the aircraft requires a smooth deceleration, outdoor guides also need a gradual transition to ease the physical and emotional strain they have endured. However, without proper support and coping mechanisms, this sudden stop can leave them vulnerable to maladaptive strategies such as addiction and self-medicating.

Imagine the weight of responsibility and the toll it takes on an outdoor guide's mind and body. They may have witnessed the triumphs and joys of their clients, but they have also experienced the sorrows and challenges that nature can present. Working under stress-inducing conditions, such as dangerous terrains, unpredictable weather, and unexpected incidents, can leave outdoor guides physically depleted and emotionally drained.

The sudden stop at the end of the season can be a jarring transition. Without a healthy outlet, the collective stress and anxiety experienced during the busy season can manifest in detrimental ways. From the pursuit of momentary relief through substances to self-medication to masked emotional pain, these unhelpful coping mechanisms can further exacerbate the challenges experienced by outdoor guides.

Acknowledging the unique pressures and experiences faced by the outdoor guiding community is essential. By doing so, interventions and support systems can be developed to address the distinctive needs of these dedicated individuals. Recognizing the risks and dangers of transitioning from high adventure to rest can shape effective strategies for promoting their mental well-being and prevent the harmful negative accumulation of stress injuries. 

In this article, we will explore the impact of the physical and emotional toll on outdoor guides. We will delve into the importance of understanding the challenges faced during the transition and highlight the significance of providing appropriate support and resources. By doing so, we aim to foster a culture of healing, resilience, and sustainable wellness within the outdoor guiding community.

Together, we can ensure that outdoor guides not only experience the thrill of adventure but also find solace, growth, and rejuvenation in the aftermath of the high-stress season they navigate so magnificently.

Stress Injuries 

The risks of not addressing the stress injuries experienced by the outdoor guiding community during the offseason are significant and can have long-lasting effects on individuals' mental well-being. Research and studies have highlighted the potential consequences of neglecting to address these stress injuries, emphasizing the importance of providing appropriate support and resources.

Exposure to traumatic events during the outdoor guiding season can contribute to developing traumatic stress injuries among the guiding community, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other related psychological disorders12. These traumatic events include severe weather conditions, accidents, injuries, outdoor hazards, and medical emergencies34. Moreover, the cumulative effect of multiple stressors on the job can exacerbate the risk of traumatic stress injuries among outdoor guides.

Members of the outdoor guiding community may require mental health treatment and support to address the psychological effects of traumatic stress injuries. It is crucial to recognize the signs of traumatic stress injuries and address them promptly. Early intervention can help reduce the risk of long-lasting psychological effects impacting personal and work life34.

Effective treatments for traumatic stress injuries may include a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, and stress reduction techniques1. Peer support programs offer a promising approach for mitigating traumatic stress injuries and fostering resilience in the guiding community5.

It is essential to prioritize the mental health needs of the outdoor guiding community and provide appropriate resources and support to address the potential risks of traumatic stress injuries. By recognizing the psychological toll of the job and creating trauma-informed environments, outdoor organizations can promote the well-being of their members and foster a culture of safety.

Post-Stress Injury Debriefing 

One mental health professional who has taken a unique approach to alleviating stress injuries in the outdoor guiding community is Heidi Brouellette, MA, LPC, founder of the Discovery and Wellness Counseling company in Scottsdale, Arizona. Brouelette coined "post-stress injury debriefing" to describe transitioning the outdoor guiding community from operating in the yellow part of the operational stress guide published by the Responder Alliance Group.

"Post-stress injury debriefing is a way to teach a person to come back from experience and decompress themselves, allowing them to move on healthily," says Brouelette. She aims to educate the outdoor guiding community on the benefits of seeking group therapy support, particularly after experiencing high-stress situations. "Somatic work, post-critical interviews, and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) work can help prevent long-term consequences."

Drawing from her extensive experience in counseling first responders and other high-stress professions, Mrs.Brouelette has witnessed firsthand the value of somatic work, post-critical interviews, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in preventing long-term consequences for the outdoor guiding community. Through somatic work, she has observed the power of integrating body-based practices, such as breathing techniques, meditation, and movement exercises, to help individuals reconnect with their physical sensations and regulate their nervous system response. This somatic approach not only helps outdoor guides release stored stress and trauma but also cultivates greater self-awareness and resilience in the face of future challenges.

Brouelette has also recognized the importance of post-critical interviews, which provide a structured environment for guides to process and integrate their experiences. By facilitating these interviews, she creates a safe space where guides can reflect on the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations associated with critical incidents. This process helps prevent the accumulation of unresolved trauma and encourages guides to actively engage in their healing journey, reducing the risk of long-term consequences.

Furthermore, Brouelette successfully utilized Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) with First Responders. ART is an evidence-based treatment modality that combines eye movements, memory reconsolidation, and guided imagery to rapidly alleviate distressing symptoms of trauma and stress disorders. By working with individuals using ART, Brouelette has witnessed significant reductions in symptoms and a more efficient resolution of trauma, preventing long-term consequences and fostering emotional well-being.

Through her comprehensive approach to counseling, incorporating somatic work, post-critical interviews, and ART, Brouelette has been instrumental in supporting the outdoor guiding community's mental well-being. By addressing stress and trauma proactively and providing effective interventions, she enables outdoor guides to navigate the offseason with resilience and ensures the long-lasting positive impact of their crucial work.

Conclusion

In the dynamic world of outdoor guiding, where adventure meets adversity, the need for comprehensive support and care for the mental well-being of guides cannot be overstated. As the outdoor guiding community approaches the end of its busy season, it is crucial to ensure a smooth transition for these remarkable individuals who have dedicated themselves to fostering unforgettable experiences in nature.

Discovery and Wellness Counseling (DWC) stands at the forefront of providing tailored care and support to the outdoor guiding community during this critical time. Led by Heidi Brouellette, MA, LPC, DWC has years of experience in counseling first responders and other high-stress occupational industries. Brouelette's passion for proactive intervention and her deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by those in the outdoor guiding community make DWC an invaluable resource.

Drawing upon her extensive experience leading corporate wellness training to high-stress professions, Brouellette has developed a nuanced approach to address stress injuries and promote holistic healing. Her expertise in addiction counseling, meditation practices, and breathing techniques positions DWC as a beacon of guidance and support for outdoor guides seeking to mitigate the negative effects associated with their demanding work.

Ms. Brouelette's commitment to taking a proactive stance in mitigating the impacts of stress and addiction resonates deeply within the outdoor guiding community. By introducing the concept of "post-stress injury debriefing," she is paving the way for healthier transitions and fostering resilience amongst outdoor guides. DWC's emphasis on educating the community about the importance of seeking support and developing coping skills is a testament to their dedication to the well-being of those who have dedicated themselves to rescue work.

Outdoor guides can find the guidance and support they need to transition from high adventure to healing through corporate partnerships with DWC to deliver wellness training. By addressing the underlying causes of stress injuries and facilitating the development of healthy coping mechanisms, DWC plays a vital role in promoting overall well-being in the outdoor guiding community.

Together, let us embrace a collective commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of outdoor guides, ensuring their flourishing in both their professional and personal lives. Through the nurturing and transformative care provided by Discovery and Wellness Counseling, a future of healing and growth awaits the outdoor guiding community.  To learn more about the corporate wellness and counseling services DWC provides, visit Discovery and Wellness Counseling's website.