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While there is a serious need for dedicated first responders to enter and stay in the field, the mental health repercussions of the job are a major obstacle in the attracting and retaining of talent. What are the unique mental health experiences that can affect first responders’ job satisfaction and quality of life, and what treatments can help? Answers to these sorts of questions can shed light on the role of mental health in shortages of law enforcement and emergency personnel.
What is the Impact of Mental Health Issues on First Responders’ Job Satisfaction and Performance?
The stress associated with first responder jobs can lead to various mental health conditions. According to Psychiatric Times, 30 percent of first responders will develop a behavioral or mental health problem such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, or a substance abuse problem. In the general population, the statistic is 20 percent. It is also believed, according to estimates, that as many as 300 police officers commit suicide each year, and that the mental health risks associated with first responder roles exceed those posed by other occupations.
As a result, the risk for first responder job dissatisfaction is high. Not only is the mental health aspect of the job likely to impact a first responder’s decision to stay in the field or leave, but the other aspects of the job (i.e. lower pay, ongoing training requirements, few perks, etc.) also impact first responder attrition and retention.
First responder administrators know that mental health problems can have an impact on job performance and that first responders who are struggling with a mental health crisis may find it difficult to perform their duties well.
What are the Common Mental Health Challenges That First Responders Face?
First responders face a higher-than-average risk for developing mental health conditions that include:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a serious mental health condition that typically involves flashbacks to the point of trauma in a person’s memory. Symptoms like generalized anxiety, insomnia, and rash can also accompany the disorder. With treatment, which typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, or biofeedback, clients can experience an improvement in their condition.
Depression
One in six adults will experience at least one clinical bout of depression in their adult lives. The depression can be debilitating and involve suicidal thoughts. Many first responders may choose to self-medicate. The use of alcohol or pills (i.e. prescription or illicit drugs) can pave the path to drug or alcohol addiction.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a mental health condition that’s associated with serious fear–even panic. A first responder is vulnerable to mental health conditions. People with anxiety might experience panic attacks or even difficulty breathing. Anxiety is a treatable condition, but many first responders are afraid to seek treatment for it out of fear that their condition will scrap the prospect of promotion.