Mental health concerns are not uncommon in the society. Financial challenges, divorce, and the death of a loved one are among of the most common stressors that can impact the coping mechanisms of a person in today’s society. As John Rose Oak Bluff says, firefighters and other first responders only have to deal with the same issues as society in general, but are also regularly exposed to events that involve trauma, death and loss. Exposure to traumatic events throughout their careers places firefighters at an increased risk for the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
John Rose Oak Bluff briefly sheds light on PTSD in firefighters
Firefighters have to deal with emergency calls almost on a regular basis. They are the ones who rush into flames and disasters, while others can only hope to rush out. The stressful and dangerous nature of their work takes a toll on the mental health of the firefighters. Occupational stress experienced by fire service members often unfortunately leads to a condition known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a mental health condition that is generally brought on by experiencing a traumatic or terrifying event. Signs and symptoms of PTSD are usually brought on by a combination of:
- Life experiences
- Inherited temperament or personality and mental risks
- The process by which the brain regulates the release of chemicals and hormones when a person is stressed
The intensity of the traumatic event and the lack of a good support system in place may increase the odds of developing PTSD. PTSD also creates a higher risk factor for developing additional mental health problems like depression, substance abuse and eating disorders. PTSD may even contribute to various other health-related issues like cardiovascular disease, autoimmune deficiencies, and chronic pain.
The symptoms of PTSD in firefighters can be quite extensive. These symptoms may fall in the categories of intrusive memories, avoidance or emotional numbing and anxiety as well as increased emotional arousal. Intrusive memory symptoms may involve reliving the traumatic event through flashbacks or nightmares. Symptoms of avoidance and emotional numbing are exhibited when a firefighter cannot maintain a close relationship with others, has trouble concentrating and/ or consciously avoids trying to think or talk about a certain traumatic event. Firefighters with PTSD may also become highly irritable, display outbursts of anger or other self-destructive behavior. They can suffer from insomnia, or hear or see things that are not present as well. The symptoms of PTSD in a firefighter may come and go, but can generally be triggered by any reminders of the stressful event they had experienced.
As John Rose Oak Bluff mentions, unfortunately while the fire service culture is built largely on the values of bravery and pride, it also often prevents fire service members from asking for help when needed. Stigma in regard to mental health is high in many fire departments. It is important for fire chiefs to proactively try to remove this stigma to ensure the well-being of the firefighters. Prevention and early intervention are also crucial in treating PTSD. As a fire chief, one of the best preventative measures is to create an organization that cares. Peer support systems are also integral to prevention. Having a dedicated counselor can help provide guidance to members in difficult times.
