Firefighters, police officers and emergency medical technicians are often the first on the scenes of disasters. Their bravery and service may lead them to witness disturbing sights or deal with emotionally challenging situations. These experiences may lead to post-traumatic stress disorder. This mental condition can make it difficult for first responders to do their jobs and participate fully in everyday activities. For any first responder who may be experiencing the symptoms of PTSD, there are many organizations and programs designed to help these community servicemembers recover.
1. 1st Responder Treatment
This program was designed specifically to address PTSD in first responders. Health care professionals teach firefighters, police officers and EMTs how to cope with job-related stress. For religious first responders, the program also offers a Christian-oriented version of the healing process.
2. First Responder Support Network
This resource provides first responders with information about PTSD support groups in their area. First Responder Support Network also hosts retreats for people in these career fields. What is different about this program is that it is almost entirely a peer support network. First responders help one another work through PTSD and issues related to job-induced stress, but there is still the option to speak with mental health professionals and religious leaders.
3. Badge of Life
An unfortunate reality is that many first responders do not know where to seek help for PTSD or may not want to ask for assistance. This can result in first responder suicide. Badge of Life is committed to providing first responders with the counseling and support they need to recover from their job-related trauma. It not only focuses on suicide prevention and mental health support, but it was created to improve the quality of life for first responders.
4. The Station House Retreat
Located in Boynton Beach, Florida, the Station House Retreat is a PTSD recovery program designed by first responders for other first responders. The relaxing environment is meant to encourage firefighters, police officers and EMTs to share their experiences with job-related trauma and help one another heal.
5. Lifescape Solutions
Not only does this treatment facility offer counseling and support for PTSD, but it also provides treatment for PTSD-related drug abuse in first responders. Lifescape Solutions is designed to feel like a home environment to encourage relaxation and sharing. Here, first responders can engage in small group or individual therapy sessions as well as a number of alternative treatments.
6. Safe Call Now
Unlike like the previous programs, Safe Call Now is not a program. It is a 24-hour hotline that was created for first responders. Firefighters, EMTs and police officers who are experiencing trouble due to job-related trauma can call this number at any time for crisis-referral. First responders who call will be directed to a counseling or suicide prevention service, depending on the situation.
Even though first responders are more likely to experience post-traumatic stress disorder than those in most other careers, there are a number of resources available to help them cope and overcome the mental disorder.