The following statistics relate to the importance of seeking mental health help in the first responder and health care fields:
Health Care Providers
Before COVID, 50% of healthcare workers reported experiencing some level of burnout because of challenges associated with short staffing, long hours, high job demands, and compassion fatigue. This number grew to 76% within the first year of the pandemic.
First Responders/Emergency Services
- Police officers and firefighters are more likely to die of suicide than in the line of duty
- 85% of first responders have experienced mental health issues
- Depression and PTSD are 5 times more common in first responders
- 35% of Police officers experience PTSD
- 18-24% of 911 operators and dispatchers experience PTSD
All of this, and yet there is still stigma attached to those who may be in need of help or support:
- 7 In 10 say mental health services are seldom, if ever, utilized
- 57% fear negative repercussions for seeking help
- 40% fear being demoted or fired
First responders repeatedly face unthinkable tragedy, yet since it is their chosen profession, there is an inherent culture of not asking for help when a person is struggling to come to grips with it all.
Having worked in the emergency medical field for 15 years, I personally understand how working in a highly demanding field impacts a provider's mental health. I also understand how difficult it can be asking for help. The field is both rewarding and mentally exhausting. In order to continue working in the field, it is important to be mentally healthy so you are able to help others in need. My office is a judgement free zone. I will move at the pace you require in order for you to feel comfortable sharing. The chapters of your story are yours to tell when you are ready. I am here to listen and I am ready to help you when you ask.
Anger, W. K., Dimoff, J. K., & Alley, L. (2024). Addressing Health care Workers’ Mental Health: A Systematic Review of Evidence-Based Interventions and Current resources. American Journal of Public Health, 114(S2), 213–226. https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.2...
Antonino, C. (2022, June 22). Mental health problems affecting first responders: an overview. Emergency Live. https://www.emergency-live.com...