Police, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians often see the most shocking injuries, accidents, and violent acts that one could imagine, and in up to 20 percent of first responders, this can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD can affect even the most experienced and resilient personnel, and without treatment, it can lead to highly negative outcomes ranging from job loss and substance abuse to suicidal ideation and self-harm. That is where PTSD training for first responders comes in.
As a first responder, it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of PTSD in your colleagues and know when to step in and offer the assistance they so desperately need. Not only does it help to reduce the stigma of PTSD and other mental health issues for first responders, but it also helps to identify those suffering from PTSD faster so that they can get the treatment they need.
Basic PTSD training for first responders should include:
Identifying the Causes of PTSD
PTSD can be caused by witnessing traumatic accidents, injuries, or violent acts, being subjected to them, or being exposed to the aftermath. It can also be caused by exposure to life-threatening situations, such as explosions, fires, building collapses, car accidents, gunshot wounds, floods, and more. Participants will learn the causes of PTSD so that when their colleagues are exposed to such situations, they will be able to spot the signs of PTSD faster.
Recognizing the Symptoms of PTSD
First responders should be taught to recognize the most common symptoms of PTSD in themselves and others, such as:
- Trouble sleeping or concentrating
- Abnormal irritability or outbursts
- Unpredictable bouts of anger or rage
- Intense fear or anxiety
- A lack of connection to others
- A numbness or lack of emotion
- Physical symptoms like the jitters, sweating, headaches, dizziness, and chest pain
Exploring Treatment Options
Once the symptoms of PTSD have been spotted, the training should explain the best methods to approach the affected colleagues and management about the issue, while acting within the organization’s privacy and employment guidelines. It should also detail the available treatment options in the area, as well as any insurance or worker’s compensation concerns specific to the first responder’s specific employer.
PTSD Training for First Responders in Utah
Quality PTSD training for first responders is a critical tool to protect the health, safety, and well-being of any police, fire, or EMT organization. At Deer Hollow, we specialize in the treatment of trauma, and our PTSD training courses for first responders are a great way to ensure your team is protected.
To learn more about our PTSD training programs in Draper, Utah, and the surrounding areas, call 1-888-5WE-KNOW today.