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What is a First Responder?
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First Responders are the Police officers, Firefighters, Dispatchers and EMTs who are the first people to respond to emergencies. As a First Responder, you’re exposed to chaotic, stressful, and traumatic situations day in and day out. Over time, these experiences can lead to psychological issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, relationship problems, poor sleep and depression.
The social stigma around mental health is stronger among First Responders, where any abnormality is considered a sign of weakness in a culture where courage and personal strength are highly regarded. However, mental health issues, like other health conditions, are often more easily treated when you get help early. Avoiding counseling may only compound problems later on.
Jordanna & TRSA counselors are well informed about the unique concerns facing First Responders and have direct experience treating First Responders so that they can improve their functioning both on the job and at home.
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What are the Common Psychological Issues Experienced by First Responders?
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Many first responders live with PTSD.
PTSD can occur after you witness or experience a traumatic event.
PTSD symptoms may include:
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Flashbacks and nightmares
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Avoidance behaviors
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Feelings of guilt or blame
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Irritability and angry outbursts
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Self-destructive behavior
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In addition to PTSD, First Responders also have an increased risk of developing substance abuse disorders, depression, and suicide.
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What Psychological Treatments are Helpful for First Responders?
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At Trauma Recovery Services of Arizona, we provide confidential telehealth counseling services and treatment plans for tailored to each individual’s needs. Many First Responders benefit from eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of psychotherapy that is an effective treatment for mental health conditions including trauma, anxiety, addiction disorders, and more. EMDR includes eight treatment stages focusing on the past, present, and future to heal and transform wounds that may be causing your symptoms. EMDR therapy helps the brain process traumatic memories and allows normal healing. After successful EMDR, the flight, fight or freeze response from the traumatic event is resolved.
EMDR is recognized as an effective front line treatment for PTSD and is supported by the Department of Defense, the American Psychological Association & the World Health Organization as an effective treatment for the resolution of PTSD. TRSA has EMDR trained Counselors and our owner Jordanna is a Member of EMDRIA & is EMDR Certified.
If you’re a first responder, whether you’re struggling with symptoms of PTSD, relationship problems or another mental health issue, call Trauma Recovery Services of Arizona to book an appointment.
