Document Type

Article

Abstract

This identifies existing programs utilized for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) within the professions of fire, ambulance, and law enforcement, as well as dispatchers of these services in local municipalities, state, and federal governments. PTSD is commonly associated with military personnel; however, this mental illness impacts a far greater population including emergency first responders. Research completed includes a comprehensive literature review on the subject incorporating historical context along with past and current treatment modalities. Public policy influences decisions that emergency personnel make pertaining to coming forward with concerns of PTSD, insurance coverage available, and treatment options within local and state agencies and programs offered through private organizations. Findings include recommendations for first responder organizations to implement for the benefit of emergency personnel and also to push the importance of information sharing including best practices and certain programs already implemented. Conclusions of this report show that while significant progress has been made over the past twenty years in understanding and treating PTSD, more research and discovery is needed to break down the barriers associated with this debilitating mental illness. An overall goal of this project is to serve as a call for additional research and to encourage critical first responder agency decision-makers to be open-minded about understanding the implications and impact of PTSD on front-line personnel.

Disciplines

Public Administration | Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Publication Date

11-1-2019

Language

English

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