This line of work often exposes workers to trauma, either through trauma inflicted upon the first responder or through witnessing a traumatic event. Experiencing trauma can lead to PTSD, and untreated PTSD can lead to additional struggles.
At Banyan Heartland, we offer support for first responders who are suffering from PTSD, addiction, and other disorders. With residential treatment in Illinois, healing is possible. If you or someone you love is struggling with PTSD, addiction, or both, reach out for help today.
To understand the mechanisms behind the growing addiction struggles faced by first responders, we must first look at the links between first responders and PTSD. Experts estimate that 30% of first responders will develop behavioral health problems such as PTSD or depression. [1] 84% of first responders say they have experienced a traumatic event on the job. [2]
Experiencing a traumatic event doesn’t guarantee that a person will develop symptoms of PTSD, but other factors like depression can contribute to the condition. PTSD is a diagnosis for a cluster of mental health conditions that can form within months or years after a traumatic incident. [3] Symptoms of PTSD include:
There is a strong connection between first responders and addiction, 50% of those with PTSD also abuse alcohol. [4] The symptoms of PTSD can be overwhelming and if help is not sought, the person may try to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol. This leads to the added problem of addiction, which cannot be conquered without help from a center offering treatment for alcoholism and addiction.
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If you or a loved one are struggling with drugs or alcohol, call us now!
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