Supporting First Responders in Seeking Help (Here’s What You Can Do)

First responders don’t simply respond to emergencies—they put their lives on the line—each and every day. If we look to our recent past, we can see the toll the energy, time, and emotion a scenario like COVID-19 places on these brave and heroic individuals. While studies related specifically to COVID-19 and its impacts on first responders are fairly new and ongoing, much of what we know so far shows that some frontline health care workers are experiencing adverse effects. 

In China, for example, where the longevity of the pandemic has been slightly longer than in the United States, research shows that healthcare workers have the highest rate of poor sleep, with individuals aged 35 years and younger experiencing higher rates of mood and anxiety symptoms. Additionally, of the more than 7,000 health care workers surveyed 20% exhibited depressive symptoms and 18.2% had poor sleep quality. Similar data has been collected from other areas of the world to—from the United Kingdom, India, and Singapore, as examples.

Here, stateside, the Kaiser Family Foundation KFF, released findings from a poll conducted in mid-April 2020 that revealed a host of negative impacts from the pandemic on first responders. Sleeping and eating problems; increased substance and alcohol use, and worsening mental health symptoms and well-being are some of the issues first responders are facing. 

But, the pandemic is simply one of many examples of how first responders are impacted by their jobs. As we mentioned, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), police officers, nurses, doctors, firefighters, and military personnel face trauma and disaster daily. 

As the loved one of a first responder, you may wonder how you can help. First and foremost, it’s important for you to know that you are not alone. Many family members and friends of first responders have experienced the side effects that result from mental health challenges and substance abuse. 

At Futures Recovery Healthcare, we understand the unique and dynamic issues first responders must navigate in their daily lives. Our Hero’s Ascent First Responders program is specifically dedicated to mental health and adversity that can come with being a first responder. 

Why Are First Responders at Higher Risk of Mental Illness and Substance Use?

Unlike someone who works from nine to five each day, leaving the cares of their job behind when a shift is over, first responders must contend with unusual, ever-changing, and demanding circumstances. Their work exposes them to physical danger, in addition to:

• Witnessing death
• Observing grief 
• Experiencing injury (themselves or seeing others injured)
• Seeing others in pain
• Enduring long work hours
• Having to work back-to-back shifts
• Undergoing sleeping and eating challenges

These types of exposures and hardships don’t only affect the first responder (as you well know as a friend or family member); they also impact family dynamics, relationships, economic well being, and social interaction. 

As a result of the factors listed above (and additional stressors), EMTs, firefighters, police officers, and other frontline workers are at higher risk of developing behavioral and mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD, as well as substance abuse disorders (SUDs.) In fact, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 30% of first responders develop depression, PTSD, and other associated mental health conditions compared with 20% of the general population. 

An additional concern among first responder populations is a higher rate of suicidal ideation (having suicidal thoughts.) In SAMHSA’s 2016 report, it was estimated that between 125 and 300 police officers commit suicide each year. An additional study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), revealed that firefighters are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty, and EMS workers are 1.39 times more likely to die by suicide (than the general public). 

How Can You Tell if a First Responder Is in Need of Help?

While some symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression may seem obvious, others may be more subtle. And, for first responders who must consistently navigate extraneous circumstances and events—often without rest or reprieve—the symptoms of certain mental illnesses and substance abuse may manifest in slightly different ways. 

Take a look a look at symptoms that may indicate a first responder is experiencing one or more mental health and/or substance abuse disorder:

PTSD

• Flashbacks of traumatizing events and situations
• Insomnia
• Nightmares
• Avoidance of places and scenarios that remind the person of a past traumatic event
• Irritability
• Numbness
• Guilt
• Elevated temper
• Depression
• Easily startled
• Feeling disconnected or having “out of body” type of experiences

Anxiety

• Extreme fear of places or situations
• Obsessive thoughts
• Sleeping problems
• Erratic eating patterns
• Panic 
• Dread
• Feeling restless or nervous
• Muscle twitches
• Rapid heart rate (or sensation of a rapid heartbeat)

Depression

• Extreme fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Feeling guilty or hopeless
• Lack of enthusiasm and interest in activities
• Suicidal thoughts

Substance Abuse (drugs and alcohol)

• Using drugs or alcohol before or during work
• Needing more of a drug or alcoholic drink to get drunk
• Having horrible hangovers or physical effects when stopping substance use
• Getting in trouble at work for drinking- or drug-use-related behaviors
• Avoiding family and friends
• Reacting negatively when a friend or family member discusses the possibility of a drinking or drug problem
• Facing legal repercussions from driving under the influence or stealing (as examples)
• Demonstrating erratic behaviors and moods
• Continuing to drink or use substances in spite of negative consequences (losing a job, relationship, etc.)

How Can You Best Support a First Responder in Need of Help?

Some of the biggest challenges in helping first responders get the help they need for mental health and substance abuse disorders have largely been a lack of understanding. According to the CDC, evidence-based interventions for first responders are few, as are programs designed specifically to address their mental health and substance abuse needs. Added to this challenge is a lack of training or comprehension of first responder culture on part of health providers. 

If and when a first responder seeks help for mental health or substance use, only to discover that a provider or program is not prepared to address their needs, they may shut down or refuse further (or future) help. 

In addition, because of the weight of their responsibility and societal roles, first responders can feel that seeking help for mental health and substance use reflects weakness. That’s why one method of intervention—peer-to-peer counseling—has been particularly helpful for first responders. 

Other initiatives are actively being researched and implemented by various agencies and organizations to improve education and awareness on suicide prevention among first responders, which include the:

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC)
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in cooperation with the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS)
• U.S. House and Senate’s Helping Emergency Responders Overcome (HERO) Act

Together, these government entities, alongside private groups and organizations, are working to overcome the disparities and barriers preventing first responders from receiving the support and resources they need and deserve. 

As the friend or family member of a first responder, there are ways you can support your loved one too. These include:

• Refrain from asking a first responder questions like, “What is the worst thing you have ever witnessed?” Or, “What’s the worst injury you’ve ever seen?” These questions are intrusive and can be triggering, reigniting traumatic feelings. 
• Let your loved one know you care and are available to provide support. Did you know that one study revealed that only 24.6% of first responders reported feeling like others would care about their struggles? Simply communicating to a first responder family member or friend that you are available to listen and provide help in any way, goes a long way. 
• Donate your time and resources. If you are able to, donate a meal, massage, or another type of service that promotes self-care to a first responder. Or, see if there are opportunities to volunteer or advocate for first responders in your community. 
• Spread awareness about the challenges that first responders face. You can be an advocate for your loved one by sharing what you have learned about the increased mental illness and substance abuse risks first responders face.

Above all, it’s important to remember that you and the first responder you care for are not alone. Millions of first responders and the people they love face adversity each and every day. But, there is hope and help. 

At Futures Recovery Healthcare, our Hero’s Ascent First Responder’s program addresses a wide range of mental health disorders from depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders to bipolar and other related disorders. Our compassionate, non-judgemental experts are highly skilled and trained in clinical, medical, and psychiatric interventions. 

Hero’s Ascent is tailor-made for males and females 18 and over struggling with mental health disorders, providing resources and support systems specifically designed for first responders. 

If you or your loved one are ready to get help and begin a life in peace and joy, Futures is here to help. Contact us confidentially online or by phone at 866-804-2098

May: A Time to Honor First Responders

The month of May marks several dates honoring first responders. For all the sacrifices they make, the dedication they exhibit, and their acts of selflessness, first responders deserve more than one day a month. After all, these brave firefighters, police officers, military personnel, and emergency medical service (EMS) professionals (to name a few) are typically the first on the scene of many harrowing and even dangerous scenarios. Their exposure to human loss, pain, injury, grief, and other direct exposure to threats, combined with long work hours, frequent shifts, lack of sleep, and physical demands place tremendous stress on first responders. 

To help honor the vigilance and commitment of first responders, it’s important to recognize the toll that their profession can take on their minds and bodies. According to research, approximately 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Of paramount concern, suicidal ideation is higher among first responders. It’s been reported, for example, that between 125 and 300 police officers commit suicide every year. 

In addition to being more susceptible to behavioral and mental health issues, first responders are also at higher risk of developing substance use disorders (SUDs). One study comprised of firefighters revealed that 4% admitted to consuming upwards of 42 alcoholic drinks per week. In another study that tracked alcohol use in police officers after Hurricane Katrina, the average number of alcoholic drinks increased from two to seven drinks per day.

At Futures Recovery Healthcare, we understand the unique challenges first responders face in and out of recovery. For this very reason, we have created a program designed to address the specific substance use and mental health challenges that can come with being a first responder. 

Find out more about how you can honor and support the first responders in your life!

Why Are First Responders at a Higher Risk of Developing SUDs and Mental Illness?

We briefly touched upon some of the scenarios that are unique to people in professions like law enforcement, firefighting, and EMS: long hours, exposure to trauma, and more. But, how do these variables in particular, manifest into SUDs or mental illness? One of the core issues that studies have identified as a contributing risk factor is the pace of work in which first responders must navigate. 

In one study, 69% of EMS workers reported never having enough time to recover between traumatic events. The result: A higher probability of experiencing depression, stress, PTSD symptoms, and suicidal ideation. 

To help better understand the gravity of the effects of persisting through an occupation that continuously exposes one to traumatic events and situations, think about first responders’ work through COVID-19. Not only have first responders been repeatedly put in front of people who are ill, dying, and have passed away, they have also had to filter the emotions and behaviors of family members and friends, combined with few to no breaks, and no time to process their own reactions and feelings. 

Additionally, it’s likely many first responders have had dual responsibilities during the pandemic. Meaning, that in addition to having COVID-19-related duties, emergency events and scenarios are simultaneously requiring their attention. Essentially, they have limited mental, emotional, and physical downtime because of these complex scenarios.

How Do You Know When a First Responder is at Risk for SUD or Mental Illness?

There are certain behaviors and symptoms that indicate that a first responder is experiencing stress, anxiety, fear, and other emotions that may increase the opportunity of developing a mental or behavior disorder, which include:

• Exhibiting irritation and anger.
• Demonstrating uncertainty and anxiety.
• Feeling overwhelmed, helpless, and powerless.
• Experiencing lack of motivation.
• Having difficulty sleeping.
• Showing problems concentrating and focusing.
• Feeling tired and burned out.
• Exhibiting avoidance of “triggering” places, people, and situations.
• Expressing heightened mood swings, emotions, and behaviors.

The following signs and symptoms can demonstrate that a person may have or be at risk of a substance abuse disorder:

• Exhibiting changes in mood and behavior.
• Having to use substances—drugs or alcohol—routinely (including several times a day).
• Using more and more of a drug of choice.
• Continuing to use drugs or alcohol despite negative outcomes. 
• Focusing on acquiring more drugs or alcohol.
• Taking drugs and drinking alcohol before or during work.
• Showing erratic behavior at work, putting oneself or others in danger.
• Experiencing withdrawal when discontinuing drug or alcohol use. 

How Can First Responders Get Support?

Global disasters and traumatic events—COVID-19 as a prime example—have actually helped bring further awareness of the effects of trauma and stress upon first responders. Studies continue to measure and monitor the emotional and behavioral impacts that these brave emergency workers face. And, with each study and evidence-based research that emerges, the better the scientific and medical communities can devise prevention strategies to reduce the risk of SUDs and mental health disorders. 

Internally, first responder departments are helping implement steps and strategies to better honor and help their workers to boost morale, such as:

• Team-building activities (fitness challenges, training sessions) that encourage collaboration and support among workers.
• Providing meals for first responders and supporting staff.
• Ensuring that first responders clearly understand the priorities of their agency so extra energy isn’t expended on less time-sensitive tasks and initiatives.
• Offering initiatives such as hazard pay or increase in overtime pay to help first responders feel valued and appropriately compensated for their work. 

When First Responders Can Benefit From Treatment

Because first responders are at a higher risk of developing a mental health disorder, substance abuse disorder, and co-occurring disorders (having both a SUD and mental health disorder), a time may come when they need professional help and guidance. Many EMS workers, police officers, firefighters, military personnel, and other first responders benefit from integrated treatment plans. These types of treatment pathways help address a myriad of mental health and SUD needs unique to first responders. 

Supports and services such as detoxification (if needed for SUD), individual and group therapy, medication, and more can help first responders to:

• Form tools and resources to help manage feeling overwhelmed, inadequate, stressed, vulnerable, and more.
• Strengthen relationships and support systems.
• Promote activities and interests outside of work that encourage relaxation and enjoyment.
• Identify substance use triggers and create strategies to avoid relapse.
• Establish healthy coping mechanisms and solutions. 

Support the First Responders in Your Life

Even if you don’t have a first responder family member or friend, they’re all around you! You can help support police officers, firefighters, EMS professionals, and other types of first responders in a number of ways. For example, you can:

• Pay for a meal (or meals) for first responders that you see when you’re out to breakfast, lunch, or dinner. 
• Ask if your local fire station, police department, or hospital has any volunteer opportunities. 
• Find out if any local first responder organizations have any charitable causes (5K or 10K marathons or walks, for example). 
• Inquire if you can make donations to any first responder support funds. 
• Send letters and cards to your local community first responders expressing your gratitude and admiration for their service and sacrifice.
• Mark your calendar for May 13-19 for “National Police Week.” And, May 20-26 for “EMS Week.” These dedicated time slots often include events and ways to express recognition of your local police departments and EMS professionals. Do a web search to see if anything is arranged within your community for these first responders and how you may become involved. 
• Keep reading, researching, and educating yourself on the challenges and needs of first responders and how you can advocate for them. 
• Wear a ribbon or memento symbolizing first-responder awareness (blue for police, red and black for firefighters, etc.).

And, if you do happen to have a first responder in your life who you are concerned may have—or be at risk of—a SUD or mental health disorder, you can help them too. Approach your friend or family member in a humble, compassionate manner to let them know you care and are available to help them. 

Remind the first responder in your life that they are not alone! First responders can often feel that to admit they have a mental health or substance use problem is an admission of weakness—but, nothing could be further than the truth! Millions of first responders have found healing and success in recovery for SUD and mental illness, going on to live fulfilling, happy lives. 

Futures Recovery Healthcare Hero’s Ascent First Responder’s program offers a safe and non-judgmental environment for males and females 18 and over struggling with mental health disorders. Here, we address Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Bipolar and Related Disorders by using clinical, medical and psychiatric interventions, and support. Our interdisciplinary team approach allows patients to receive holistic services and care. 

Hero’s Ascent is tailor-made to provide resources and support systems for first responders. Our goal is to help develop and establish a journey of healing and a life worth living.

If you are ready to get help and begin a life in peace and joy, Futures is here for you. Contact us confidentially online or by phone at 866-804-2098