Excerpts from usda.fema.gov:
A growing body of research is beginning to focus on the mental health challenges faced by firefighters, especially those stemming from repeated exposure to traumatic events. While many studies have examined the effects of a single traumatic incident, such as a fire or disaster, less attention has been given to the long-term impact of consistently dealing with trauma day in and day out. This article highlights a study1 that explores how repeated exposure to trauma (RET) affects the psychological well-being of firefighters.
Firefighters today are not only responding to fires but also handling an increasing number of emergency medical calls, search and rescue missions, hazardous material incidents, and natural disasters. These situations often take place in familiar settings—near their homes, along highways, or within their communities—making the emotional toll even more profound.
RET, or the cumulative effect of repeatedly witnessing trauma, can have lasting psychological consequences for firefighters. Unlike PTSD, which is typically linked to a single event, RET results from ongoing exposure to distressing situations. Previous research has shown that firefighters face unique mental health risks, including higher rates of depression, substance use, and secondary trauma.
Key Findings from Earlier Studies
- Studies show that fire and EMS personnel experience higher rates of depression compared to the general population.
- Firefighters are more likely to engage in heavy alcohol use and binge drinking, which may be linked to PTSD symptoms.
- Many firefighters suffer from secondary trauma or compassion fatigue, even if they aren’t formally diagnosed with PTSD. Symptoms like insomnia, avoidance, and helplessness are common.
Findings from This Study
Firefighting and Mental Health: Experiences of Repeated Exposure to Trauma
- Most firefighters report more significant mental health impacts from multiple traumatic experiences than from a single one.
- Symptoms of RET often include emotional numbness, irritability, cynicism, and intrusive memories.
- Many firefighters develop effective coping strategies to manage their emotions. Further research should explore these protective mechanisms and build on them to support mental resilience.
This study emphasizes the need for better mental health support systems tailored to the unique demands of firefighting. The full research article can be accessed through our library by contacting us directly. Readers may also find it available via their local library or the publisher’s website.
1 Jahnke, S. A., Poston, W. S., Haddock, C. K., & Murphy, B. (2016). Firefighting and mental health: Experiences of repeated exposure to trauma. *Work*, 53(4), 737–744. doi:10.3233/wor-162255
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