Faith and religion are often confused with one another. Religion is a way to express faith, but faith can be had without religion itself. It's important to have faith in something, regardless of which deity or higher power feels most right to you. Studies have shown that those with a deep faith and connection generally have better physical and mental health, but faith also provides an additional layer of security of self when processing difficult situations or emotions.

Faith and religion can both be difficult for those in public safety to connect with and to establish, as so much of what is seen and handled daily directly contradicts the definition of right and wrong, often prompting deep and angry questioning of higher powers of all kinds. Its very easy to slam your hands against your steering wheel while yelling, "There is no God if this was allowed to happen!" But, the truth is that having a true sense of personal faith actually helps us to process these things in a cleaner and more linear way, further allowing us to release the burden we emotionally incur.

Project 109's Faith & Spirituality resources offer a wide variety of perspectives from various backgrounds and bases, which support responders and families to gently develop their own sense of faith and security at their own pace and in their own way, through videos, live groups, blogs, and more. Choose from several contributors within our virtual platform who share unique perspectives, guidance, knowledge, and experience - all who are first responders, just like you!