Hardly a day goes by in the firehouse that someone does not mention the word “stress.” Many trade journal articles and research projects have determined that firefighters are subjected to a higher rate of stress responses than the average person. According to the American Psychiatric Association, the rate of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the general population ranges from seven percent to nine percent. Various research studies pertaining specifically to firefighters have cited PTSD rates for firefighters ranging from 16 percent to as high as 24 percent. As you can see, firefighters have a higher rate of PTSD than the general population. Therefore, it is well established that firefighters are impacted by critical incident stress.
Many of the normal stress responses firefighters experience will diminish over time and will not require assistance. Some firefighters may develop acute stress disorder (ASD)-(the symptoms occur within a month and last a few days) or PTSD. Firefighters suffering from PTSD who receive the proper intervention can recover fully and lead productive lives and have successful careers. However, many will receive no intervention and will live with the symptoms of PTSD, attempting to cope using destructive behavior. PTSD symptoms may even force some firefighters into retirement.
This article is not intended for self-diagnosis or the diagnosis of others. Its purpose is to help firefighters, coworkers, family members, and fire service administrators to better understand the dynamics of this illness.
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