First responders are often seen as the heroes who charge
into extreme situations to save lives. But what happens when they have to face
the aftermath of these traumatic events? While they may have been trained to
handle the physical aspect of their job, many are not prepared for the toll it
takes on their mental health. The constant exposure to trauma can lead to
long-term effects, but unfortunately, resources for mental health support are
not always readily available for first responders.
One coping mechanism that is common among first responders
is self-medication. This refers to using drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with
overwhelming emotions and feelings that they may not be ready or able to
confront. According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control at
the CDC, the high levels of mental stress in first responder jobs can
contribute to substance abuse and alcoholism. In fact, studies show that first
responders are more likely to engage in heavy or binge drinking compared to the
general population.
The pressure to remain composed during one crisis after
another can become too much to bear, leading some first responders to turn to
alcohol or other substances as an easy escape at the end of a tough day. Along
with alcohol, tobacco use and excessive painkiller usage are also common forms
of self-medication among this group.
But these habits can quickly spiral out of control and lead
to Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Many first responders may not even realize
they have a problem until they try to cut back or face negative consequences
from their self-medicating behavior. Asking for help with SUD can be
challenging and stigmatized, especially for first responders who may feel
embarrassed or ashamed about their struggle.
The culture of being a first responder is one that values
strength, self-reliance, and always saving others. While this mentality can be
beneficial in the line of duty, it also leads many first responders to consider
stress and trauma as just part of their job, making it difficult for them to
admit when they are struggling and reach out for help. Seeking help for these
issues may not only go against societal expectations but also put their career
at risk.
Unfortunately, this fear may of repercussion is partially
legitimate. Mental health is a requirement for being a first responder. There
have been cases where first responders have faced consequences for seeking
treatment for mental health challenges. This can include losing access to their
weapons or being assigned to desk duty, which can ultimately impact their job
performance and opportunities for advancement.
The stigma surrounding mental health in the first responder
community leads many individuals to under-report symptoms and avoid seeking
help in order to dodge negative judgments or repercussions at work. On average,
about one third of first responders experience stigma regarding mental health
issues.
While shame and stigma are often the biggest obstacles
preventing first responders from seeking mental health services, practical
barriers also play a significant role, such as access to convenient services
and compatibility with work schedules.
Surveys conducted among law enforcement officers and firefighters
have revealed how widespread these practical barriers are. 525 firefighters
throughout the United States were surveyed. Cost and availability were
highlighted as major challenges when it came to accessing mental health
services. This is especially problematic for volunteer firefighters, who may
face even more difficulty in obtaining the necessary support compared to career
first responders. Law enforcement officers, particularly those employed by
smaller departments outside of urban areas, also encounter similar obstacles in
accessing mental health services. For many, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
are contracted to provide mental healthcare services, effectively outsourcing
the problem to people who do not understand the specific needs these first
responders have.
This leads to one of the biggest problems. The lack of
accessible therapists who are specifically trained to handle trauma. Often, the
only option is a general mental health practitioner, who may not have the
necessary expertise or understanding of the unique experiences of first
responders. This can be discouraging for first responders who finally decide to
seek treatment, and that negative or potentially unhelpful encounter could prevent
them from seeking further help in the future.
It’s important to know that those who have mental health
conditions or experience symptoms can still have positive outcomes with the
right support.
The removal of the stigma associated with experiencing
emotional distress, access to trauma-trained clinicians, and education about
good mental health being just as important as good physical health are all
important parts of the healing process. They should be easily accessible to all
first responders. After all, these superheroes deserve the best care possible
for all they do for our communities.
*****
“If you believe change is possible, you want to change, and you are willing to do the work, you absolutely CAN get your life back.”
Get your copy of The Soldier's Guide to PTSD, The Soldier's Workbook,
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