First responders, including firefighters, police, search and rescue crews, and EMTs, have demanding jobs that include treating those in pain, carrying victims to safety, and saving lives. They’re also regularly exposed to trauma, encountering severely injured or deceased individuals, which can be mentally and emotionally taxing. First responder PTSD is thought to occur in about one-third of those who regularly put their lives on the line to keep people safe.

Here are the essential facts you should know about the condition’s causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

First Responder PTSD: Common On-the-Job Challenges

Imagine having a job that requires constant split-second decisions that could determine someone’s survival. Or one where frequent night shifts or emergency calls lead to sleep disruption and physical and mental stress. First responders deal with these and other challenges, including compassion fatigue, grief, and safety risks every day. They can also find it difficult to maintain a balance between work responsibilities and family life, leading to strained relationships.

Symptoms of first responder PTSD include:

• Flashbacks, nightmares, and triggers that result in re-experiencing trauma.
• Avoidance behaviors, including emotional numbness and social isolation.
• Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response, even in safe environments.
• Negative self-perception and a sense of detachment from others.
• Loss of interest in everyday activities and a persistent feeling of hopelessness.
• Depressive symptoms such as persistent sadness, guilt or shame, and withdrawal.
• Substance abuse and engaging in reckless or risky behaviors.

First responders dealing with PTSD might also struggle to perform their duties as effectively as they once did, start taking more days off due to mental distress, and find it difficult to maintain professional relationships.

Compassionate and Effective Treatment Options at Deer Hollow

Recognizing first responder PTSD is the first step toward getting the support these selfless protectors deserve. Understanding the early signs and fostering an environment that supports mental health can be crucial in providing appropriate treatment and other resources to those more accustomed to serving others in crisis.

Deer Hollow provides highly specialized treatments that address the whole person, from the root cause of trauma to the ways it is damaging everyday life. If you or someone you care about is suffering from the impacts of first responder PTSD, contact us today. We care deeply about helping people regain their joy and sense of purpose.