Tull, Matthew. "Rates of PTSD in Firefighters." Verywell Mind. N.p., 15 Feb. 2017. Web.

07

Apr. 2018. <https://www.verywellmind.com/rates-of-ptsd-in-firefighters-2797428>.

Rates of PTSD in firefighters may be heightened Because of all the trauma that firefighters
more so than in other professions. See, many people experience on a daily basis, they are at a higher risk
will experience a potentially traumatic event at some for developing PTSD than people of other
point in their life. occupations.

Another study found that firefighters generally Car accidents and medical calls are among the most
reported that medical emergencies and motor vehicle upsetting calls that firefighters respond to
accidents were the most upsetting types of calls that
they received.

Studies have found that anywhere between Different studies show different statistics ranging
approximately 7% and 37% of firefighters meet anywhere from as low as 7% of firefighters
criteria for a current diagnosis of PTSD. suffering from PTSD to 37% of firefighters. This
can be caused from how the studies were
It is clear from these studies that there is a big range performed.
in PTSD rates among firefighters. This is likely due
to a number of reasons, including how PTSD was
assessed (through a questionnaire or interview),
whether other emergency responders were also
surveyed along with the firefighters, whether the
firefighters were volunteer or not, and where the
firefighters worked.

A number of risk factors for PTSD among firefighters There are many factors that put firefighters at risk
have been identified. These include: for developing PTSD. Some of these include but
are not limited to: being single, having another
 Being previously in treatment for another disorder, having negative thoughts about yourself,
disorder. etc.
 Starting work as a firefighter at a younger
age.
 Being unmarried
 Holding a supervisory rank in the fire service.
 Proximity to death during a traumatic event.
 Experiencing feelings of fear and horror
during a traumatic event.
 Experiencing another stressful event (for
example, loss of a loved one) after a traumatic
event.
  Holding negative beliefs about oneself (for
example, feeling as though you are
inadequate or weak).
 Feeling as though you have little control over
your life.
 Hostility.

Even though firefighters might be at high risk for Most firefighters have the tendency not to develop
stress as a result of their jobs, it is important to point PTSD.
out that most firefighters will not develop PTSD.

Seeking out help may be an important way of A good way to reduce the risk of PTSD in
reducing your risk for developing PTSD as a result of firefighters is seeking out help.
experiencing multiple traumatic events. There are
a number of effective treatments available ranging
from psychology to medication to help you overcome
the impact of a traumatic event.