First Responders and Stress
First responders put their lives on the line every day as they work to save the lives of others. The stress involved in many of the situations they encounter can be overwhelming, physically and emotionally. Many attempt to deal with the stress through self-medicating techniques such as taking drugs or drinking alcohol. These methods only make the situation worse. Self-medicating brings on its own set of problems, perhaps the most concerning of which is addiction.
PTSD and Addiction
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common among firefighters and emergency personnel. Almost a third of first responders develop behavioral health conditions, including depression and PTSD. First responders encounter life-and-death situations, including violent and unsettling incidents, as part of their normal workday. Again, turning to drugs or alcohol to treat the PTSD can result in an addiction, which makes the situation and the symptoms that much worse.
Treatment for first responders involves identifying the issues that caused the PTSD. A dual diagnosis of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder can result from a vicious cycle of stress, behavioral issues, and drug or alcohol addiction. Both the addiction and the mental health issues must be treated together to heal the whole person.
Challenges on Two Fronts
First responders face the difficulty of dealing with the traumatic incidents they witness every day, as well as the challenges of staying sober and focused enough to perform their jobs of rescuing people from fires, accidents, or dire medical situations. Treatment for first responders enables them to work through their daily stress and trauma in positive, healthy ways as they work toward a successful recovery from addiction.
Evidence-Based Treatment for First Responders
At BRC Recovery, we understand that first responders may face stigma about seeking treatment for their mental health and substance use disorders. Our evidence-based treatment program is completely confidential and effective for first responders. Particularly for those with a dual diagnosis and who may feel they are treatment resistant, we offer quality therapeutic approaches designed to heal mind, body, and spirit in a holistic approach. To learn more about treatment for first responders, please contact BRC Recovery and call 1-866-291-2676 today.