Tame Your Thoughts: Mental Fitness for First Responders

Every day, the average person has around 70,000 thoughts, and studies suggest nearly 80% of them are negative or self-critical. For first responders, that number can feel even higher. Between high-stakes calls, long shifts, and constant exposure to trauma and uncertainty, the mind can become our toughest battlefield.

By Gene Kohut, Co-founder and COO of SWORN.ai

Every day, the average person has around 70,000 thoughts, and studies suggest nearly 80% of them are negative or self-critical.

For first responders, that number can feel even higher. Between high-stakes calls, long shifts, and constant exposure to trauma and uncertainty, the mind can become our toughest battlefield.

Author Max Lucado, in Tame Your Thoughts, reminds us that our thoughts aren’t just background noise. They shape how we think, feel, and act.

He points to some sobering truths:

• 1 in 5 adults report symptoms of anxiety or depression.
• 42% of high school students experience persistent sadness or hopelessness.
• People battling depression are 40% more likely to develop cardiovascular issues.

The message is clear. Mental health is mission-critical.
Unchecked thoughts lead to burnout and disconnection.
Renewed minds lead to resilience, clarity, and purpose.

At Sworn.ai, we believe that mental readiness is just as vital as tactical readiness.
That’s why we’re building tools that help agencies and their people track stress, manage mindset, and stay mentally fit so every first responder can serve others without losing themselves in the process.

Your mind is your most powerful piece of gear.
Train it. Protect it. Strengthen it.

Romans 12:2 says it best: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.”

A strong mind saves lives too. 💙