(sourced EMS1.com)
Over time, exposure to such stress can take a toll on first responders’ mental and physical health. In some cases, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) results, with symptoms such as: Flashbacks, nightmares, and recurring thoughts.
Did you know…Up to 22% of all paramedics will develop PTSD?
Historically traumatic stress and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder have been conditions associated with those that have experienced combat or been in the military. Recently, there has been mounting evidence that first responders are also experiencing these conditions at alarming rates, and that we need to make their own mental health a priority.
A survey of more than 4,000 first responders found that 6.6 percent had attempted suicide, which is more than 10 times the rate in the general population
Below are links to online resources for first responders PTSD education. It is vital to know the symptoms, and treatment to help save lives:
https://www.verywellmind.com/rates-of-ptsd-in-firefighters-2797428
https://www.suicideinfo.ca/resource/first-responders-trauma-intervention-suicide-prevention/
If you or your loved one is suicidal please call 911. Know there is help waiting.
Here is a list of wonderful organizations dedicated to the mental health advocacy of first responders:
The Code Green Campaign is a first responder oriented mental health advocacy and education organization. Also known as Code Green, we serve all types of first responders, including firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers, police, corrections, air medical, and search & rescue. Our name is a combination of the color for mental health awareness (green), and from the “code alerts” that EMS uses to designate an emergency patient. For example, if someone is having a stroke or heart attack that needs rapid intervention, first responders will tell the hospital the patient is having a “code stroke” or “code STEMI”. The idea is that Code Green is calling a code alert on the mental health of first responders.
The mission of Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance is to collaborate, develop and implement behavioral health awareness, prevention, intervention, and post crisis strategies to provide firefighters with an easily accessible and confidential source of information.
Safe Call Now is a resource for public safety employees to speak confidentially with officers, former law enforcement officers, public safety professionals and/or mental healthcare providers who are familiar with your line of work.
MAKE A SAFE CALL NOW: 206-459-3020
Code 9 Project: Our mission is to provide education, support and viable self-help tools to all Public Safety Personnel and their families for the purpose of managing and reducing the compressive stress effects, such as PTSD and suicide.
https://www.code9project.org/
Serenity Health offers discounts to First Responders for Ketamine Infusion Treatment. Call to find out more information…1-888-442-HEAL (4325)
