Mental Health and First Responders

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]First responders are often subject to extremely traumatizing experiences. These experiences tie in with excessively long hours and swift decision-making can do a number on the mental health of any police officer, firefighter, or emergency medical tech. Despite most first responders believing a healthy mental state is critical to success on the job, many first responders refuse to seek help for their depression and anxiety due to the stigma that often comes with it.

Old stereotypes persist in the realm of first responders when the topic of mental health treatments is brought up. A University of Phoenix study showed shocking evidence that stigma against proper mental health treatments is still prevalent in the first responder community. 20% cited feelings of discomfort when discussing their feelings. 19% feared they would be perceived as weak by their coworkers. Another 19% were afraid of retaliation by their coworkers, and 17% feared it would affect their chances for promotion if they sought mental health services.

There’s not a stigma attached to getting help for the flu or going to the dentist, why should there be one as a first responder seeking mental health help? First responders are often working with the mindset that they should suck it up and just cope with the realities of the job. The flip side to that is that when first responders neglect mental wellness, the illnesses they treat in others seep into their own lives. Relationships to friends, spouses, and even our view of self can all be impacted by neglecting mental health by fearing the stigma sometimes associated with it.

The truth is, it’s okay to not be okay. The wild and varied calls first responders experience take their toll, and that toll is best shared with others. When the emotions of depression, anxiety, and grief are bottled up they can lead to a disastrous explosion of emotion that can lead us to hurt ourselves and others. WPA Counseling is staffed with former first responders that understand and can personally relate to your unique situations. The best way we can end the stigma against mental health counseling in the first responder community is to act as a lighthouse to steer our brothers and sisters in the direction of a healthier them. With WPA Counseling, that can be accomplished when we work together.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]