First responders deal with trauma in various ways to cope with their daily experiences, and must learn to deal with it in a healthy manner. The results can be devastating if the trauma occurs from a single instance or builds up over time. And to make matters worse, not everyone affected realizes or recognizes the consequences.
First Responders Deal with Trauma: The Good and the Bad
Unfortunately, first responders often cannot deal with the traumatic effects of their work in a healthy or timely manner. Because of societal and professional expectations to push aside their thoughts, feelings, and well-being, they may not seek recourse until it is too late.
Unhealthy Ways of Dealing with Trauma
Just as there are healthy ways to deal with trauma, there are also less favorable responses to traumatic incidents, whether single or cumulative. When trauma builds up over time, the individual could quickly become overwhelmed. Consequently, these feelings may give way to a sudden violent outburst, sometimes accompanied by feelings of shame, guilt, and of being a failure.
Other problems could occur without outlets or mechanisms for handling these emotions. People who experience trauma may resort to harmful actions and behavioral patterns to cope, and first responders are no different. Some of these unhealthy patterns could include alcohol and substance abuse and compulsive sexual behavior. Others may partake in excessive exercise or unhealthy eating. Then, there are those who will resort to gambling or isolation, and some of this could lead to suicidal thoughts or impulses.
First Responder Strategies for Coping with Trauma
How should first responders deal with trauma? What are some healthier and more productive courses of action available to them? Here are some suggestions:
Acknowledge the Nature of Trauma
First responders, their families, and coworkers should acknowledge that trauma is something they need to treat. Like fractures, wounds, and other injuries, first responders should address them so they can return to their everyday lives without lasting physical and emotional damage. Neglecting to acknowledge the damaging nature of trauma could delay healing and recovery.
Find Someone to Talk To
Finding someone to talk to is the traditional advice for anyone going through a rough period, and it can still be quite effective. Admittedly, some first responders are reluctant to discuss their thoughts and feelings because of what their peers might think about them. But given the nature of their work, talking things out with a therapist, family member, or coworker shouldn’t be criticized but encouraged.
Practice Self-Regulation
All first responders practice self-regulation, which is imperative when dealing with trauma. A crucial aspect of dealing with the situation is recognizing trauma’s physical and mental effects and striving for calmness and serenity. Failing to do so could trap the individual in a cycle of worry and fear long after the incident has passed.
It is essential to mind your surroundings and be aware of your time. Likewise, take note of how you physically feel and observe the temperature and environmental conditions.
Seek Healthy Self-Fulfillment
Finally, it might help to devote time and energy to things that give you fulfillment. Whether you need to spend time alone or engage in a social activity, it might be what you need to gain a new perspective.
Conclusion
For better or worse, exposure to trauma will always be a factor in a first responder’s professional life. Many have opted to enter this profession to help others and provide a valuable service to the community. But these goals shouldn’t come at the expense of their well-being. They should also remember to seek help and care for themselves so they can continue to be of service to the public.
Trauma can affect first responders the same way as it affects others. Consequently, they need treatment and therapy if it all becomes too much for them to handle. When the cumulative effects of the trauma lead to unhealthy and unproductive behavior, it may be time to explore healthier coping methods.
About Provident Insurance Programs
With roots dating back to 1902, Provident Insurance Programs is a program administrator that serves paid and volunteer firefighters in addition to emergency medical responders with numerous custom-tailored insurance programs. We’ve also extended our expertise and experience to offer benefit plans and coverages to participant groups as well as Transportation Benefits. We are committed to continuing to provide superior customer service, and would be happy to speak with you to provide further information. Give us a call today at (855) 201-8880 to speak with one of our representatives.