PTSD in First Responders - Symptoms, Tips & Treatment
Updated: October 17, 2024PTSD and First Responders
First responders face traumatic situations regularly, which can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Understanding the impact and recognizing the signs can prevent someone from struggling. It can also be helpful to know the treatment options that can help those affected. PTSD is treatable and there are a variety of evidence-based treatments available. If you are a first responder and dealing with symptoms of PTSD - you are not alone.
At Virtual CBT psychotherapy, we offer a full range of treatment options for first responders. Learn more about our PTSD treatment options and therapists. Book a free call to learn how we can help you break free from PTSD. * Must be a first responder in Ontario.
Who Are First Responders?
Firefighters
Police officers (e.g. Ontario Provincial Police or OPP)
Paramedics
Other emergency personnel like 911 dispatchers or anyone who helps during an emergency (e.g. military personnel)
Statistics of PTSD in First Responders
PTSD is a significant issue among first responders. Studies show that about 15% to 30% of first responders develop PTSD. This is much higher than the general population, where the rate is around 6.8%. First responders are at greater risk because they witness traumatic incidents regularly.
What Causes PTSD in First Responders?
PTSD can affect anyone, but first responders are at a higher risk. Here are some common causes of PTSD in first responders:
Exposure to Traumatic Events
First responders witness traumatic events like accidents, fires, violent crimes, and natural disasters. Seeing injuries, death, and destruction can be very distressing.
High-Stress Situations
The job often involves high-pressure situations where quick decisions are crucial. Constant stress from these intense situations can contribute to PTSD.
Personal Danger
First responders face dangerous situations where their own lives are at risk. The fear and adrenaline from these experiences can have lasting effects.
Repeated Trauma
Repeated exposure to traumatic events can make it harder for first responders to recover from each incident. Over time, this accumulation of trauma can lead to PTSD.
Lack of Support
Not having enough emotional or mental health support can make it difficult to cope with the stress and trauma of the job. Without support, first responders might struggle to process their experiences.
Emotional Involvement
First responders often help people during the worst moments of their lives. Becoming involved with victims and their families can be overwhelming and lead to PTSD.
Sleep Deprivation
Irregular hours and long shifts can lead to sleep deprivation, which affects mental health. Lack of sleep can make it harder to cope with stress and trauma.
Stigma Around Mental Health
There can be a stigma around seeking help for mental health issues among first responders. Fear of being judged or viewed as weak might prevent them from getting the help they need.
Witnessing Colleague Injuries or Death
Seeing a colleague injured or killed in the line of duty can be traumatic and contribute to PTSD.
Understanding these causes can help first responders recognize the signs of PTSD. It can also help raise awareness and people can seek appropriate help.
Signs and Symptoms of PTSD in First Responders
Recognizing PTSD early can make a big difference. Here are some common signs to watch for:
Flashbacks or Nightmares: Reliving traumatic events.
Avoidance: Steering clear of reminders of the trauma.
Hypervigilance: Being constantly on edge or easily startled.
Emotional Numbness: Feeling detached or having trouble experiencing emotions.
Irritability or Anger: Increased frustration or outbursts.
Depression or Anxiety: Persistent sadness or excessive worry.
Difficulty Sleeping: Insomnia or restless sleep.
PTSD can look different from person to person. If you are avoiding trauma triggers and have intense emotions when you think about your trauma, it may be worth having an assessment with a mental health professional.
What is Complex PTSD?
Complex PTSD, or C-PTSD, comes from going through a lot of intense and ongoing trauma over a long time. For first responders, this could mean facing or observing life-or-death situations. While PTSD usually happens after one traumatic event, C-PTSD develops from a series of difficult experiences.
How is Complex PTSD Different from PTSD?
Both PTSD and C-PTSD involve flashbacks, reliving traumatic memories, and avoiding reminders of what happened. C-PTSD often has extra challenges involving emotions, self-esteem, and relationships.
Strong Emotions. People with C-PTSD can have intense emotions, like extreme anger or deep sadness. These emotions can be hard to handle, especially for first responders under pressure. PTSD can affect emotions too, but usually not as intensely.
Negative Self-Image. C-PTSD can cause people to see themselves in a negative light, often feeling shame, guilt, or like they aren’t good enough. PTSD doesn’t usually have this strong effect on self-esteem.
Relationship Struggles. C-PTSD can make trusting others difficult and cause people to pull away from close relationships. For first responders, this can mean trouble connecting with loved ones who haven’t been through the same experiences. While PTSD can also impact relationships, C-PTSD tends to cause more severe issues.
Constant Alertness and Disconnection. Both PTSD and C-PTSD can make people feel constantly on edge. But with C-PTSD, people might also feel disconnected from themselves or the world around them. This can make it hard to function during or after their shifts.
PTSD Test
You could also complete the PTSD Checklist for DSM-IV and bring it with you to see your family doctor, psychiatrist or therapist.
7 Tips for First Responders with PTSD
Acknowledge Your Feelings: It's okay to feel what you're feeling. Recognize that these feelings are valid.
Talk to Someone You Trust: Share your thoughts and experiences with a trusted friend, family member, or colleague.
Seek Professional Help: Consider reaching out to a therapist who specializes in trauma and PTSD.
Stay Active: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve your mood.
Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help manage stress.
Join a Support Group: Connecting with others who understand your experiences can be very healing.
Manage Trauma Triggers: Start a list of things that trigger your trauma. It’s best not to avoid trauma triggers. Instead, learn how to start approaching them. You are stronger than you think! If you are too nervous to do this alone, book a free consultation with us to learn how a trauma therapist can help.
Treatment Options for PTSD First Responders
The American Psychological Association (APA) recommends several effective treatments for PTSD. Here are some of the top options:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): This therapy helps change negative thought patterns and behaviours. It's very effective for PTSD.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): This technique helps process and reduce the impact of traumatic memories.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): This therapy focuses on modifying beliefs related to the trauma.
Prolonged Exposure (PE): This involves gradually facing trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations. Approaching trauma-related triggers takes the power away from PTSD. Many clients report that it "desensitizes" them to their memory.
At Virtual CBT Psychotherapy, we offer all of these trauma therapies. Learn about our therapies for PTSD and therapists. Discover the differences and similarities between CPT and PE. Book My Free Consultation with Virtual CBT to learn more.
Connect with a Trauma or PTSD Therapist
PTSD is a serious but treatable condition. If you're a first responder, it is crucial to recognize the signs and understand the treatment options available. With the right support and treatment, you can manage PTSD and improve your quality of life.
Book a Free Call with a PTSD Specialist
Our Clinical Directors will meet with you for your free consultation. They will answer questions that you have about our clinic. If you feel like you are a good fit, they will provide you with a therapy appointment during your consultation.
Must be an Ontario resident to access psychotherapy from our clinic. We have psychotherapists who reside across the province including Ottawa, Toronto, Mississauga, Barrie and Midland.