In this episode of The Forward Firefighter, I sit down with Dr. Chris Frueh, a clinical psychologist, professor at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, and leading expert on the health of military veterans and first responders. Dr. Frueh introduces the concept of Firefighter Syndrome, a framework that explains the cumulative physical and psychological toll of the job, whether you serve as a career firefighter or a volunteer.

We talk about how Firefighter Syndrome differs from PTSD, why challenges like anxiety, low energy, or just not feeling like yourself are often misunderstood, and how that impacts both firefighters and their families. At the same time, Dr. Frueh offers a hopeful perspective by sharing proven strategies to protect health and resilience. 

This is a conversation about facing the realities of the job with honesty, while also focusing on solutions that help firefighters stay strong, healthy, and ready for the long haul. Whether you are on the front lines or supporting someone who is, this episode will give you practical tools and a renewed sense of hope.

Full Bio

Chris Frueh, PhD is a clinical psychologist and a professor of psychology at the University of Hawaii, Hilo.  He has over thirty years of professional experience working with military veterans, service members, special operators, private defense contractors, and first responders; and has conducted clinical trials, epidemiology, historical, and neuroscience research involving genetics, brain structures, and the gut microbiome.  He has co-authored over 325 scientific publications - including a graduate textbook on psychopathology.  He is the author of “Operator Syndrome” (2024) and nine historical crime novels, including "They Die Alone" (2013)

Show Notes and References

• Firefighter Syndrome article

• Book: 62 Romeo SLEEP101: Six Weeks to Sleep Restoration

• Book: Operator Syndrome

• Go here to Chris’s webpage