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First responders have among the most difficult jobs that exist, continuously being exposed to stressful and even traumatic situations. This often leads to mental health issues, and in many cases, addiction, whether to alcohol or other substances. Unfortunately, these issues are surrounded by a stigma, with a perception that these people are weak or not fit for the jobs that they do.
It’s important to understand why first responders are at higher risk for addiction, how to spot the warning signs, and what treatment options are available. These are the keys to beating the stigma and ensuring that first responders who are suffering from addiction get the help that they need.
First Responder Substance Abuse Rates
Research has been done to understand the rates of substance abuse among first responders.
Among police officers, alcohol is the most commonly abused substance. One study found that around 18% of male officers and 16% of female officers have experienced negative consequences from abusing alcohol. Close to 8% of all police officers met the criteria for alcohol dependence. Less is known about drug abuse among police officers, but it’s estimated that 20% to 30% of all police officers have some type of substance use disorder.
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health showed that around 29% of firefighters abuse alcohol and10% abuse prescription drugs.
Drug abuse numbers for EMTs and paramedics are estimated to be even higher.
As a whole, many studies show that about 30% of all first responders have a substance abuse disorder at some point in their lives.
Why Are First Responders at Higher Risk for Addiction?
Substance abuse is often the result of mental health conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, which are extremely common among first responders due to stress and trauma. Substances are abused in order to ease the symptoms of those mental health conditions.
In the case of police officers, the recent negative public perception may be a contributing factor. They live with the fear of public scrutiny and legal consequences over decisions they must make in seconds. Mistakes can have life altering consequences.
Sleep deprivation is also a factor in substance abuse among first responders. A lack of sleep can magnify the symptoms of mental health disorders, which can increase the desire to use substances.
How To Recognize the Warning Signs
If you have a loved one who is a first responder, you may spot certain signs that may indicate that they have a substance abuse problem. These include:
- Changes in mood or mood swings
- Withdrawal from normal activities
- Neglecting responsibilities at home or at work
- Changes in sleeping or eating habits
- Secrecy
- Risky behaviors like drinking and driving
- Changes in appearance
- Frequent work absences
- Financial issues
- Defensiveness when questioned about their behavior
Treatment Options
Several treatment options are available depending on the type and severity of the substance use disorder.
Inpatient Treatment
Sometimes, inpatient treatment is the best option as a first step, particularly if the person is physically dependent on the substance. Inpatient treatment starts with a period of medically supervised detox, in which the patient is kept comfortable and safe as they experience withdrawal. They will also receive therapy, both individually and in groups.
The most common type of therapy used in most inpatient programs, such as those at Bridges of Hope, is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). In CBT, patients learn how to control the irrational thinking that is part of addiction. For example, if they have a thought such as “I can just use on the weekends,” they’ll learn to reason through the thought to come to a more rational conclusion.
CBT also focuses on healthy coping skills to deal with challenges, stress, and anxiety.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs)
PHPs are an intensive type of outpatient treatment, consisting of individual and group therapy for 6 or more hours per day, up to 7 days a week.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs)
In an IOP, the patient attends therapy for 3 to 4 hours, 3 to 4 times a week. This therapy may be individual or in groups.
Support Groups
Many find support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, helpful as ongoing treatment. In these groups, members can share challenges, experiences, and emotions, and develop peer relationships that can be invaluable.
Comprehensive Treatment
Often, the best chances of success come with a comprehensive treatment plan that consists of inpatient treatment, followed by PHP and IOP, followed by ongoing support group attendance and/or ongoing weekly individual therapy. This intensive treatment is difficult, but it can lead to lifelong recovery.
Breaking the Stigma
If you know a first responder who is struggling with substance abuse, it’s important to understand why they struggle, and to not judge them. Substance abuse disorders are mental health disorders, and do not define a person and do not mean that the person is weak or defective. Substance abuse disorders require treatment, just like a medical condition requires treatment. They are not an indicator of a person’s character.
To help them, you can provide unconditional support without judgment and let them know that you understand and are there when they need you.
If you are a first responder struggling with substance abuse, you need to know that you are not alone, you are not a failure, and help is available. Do not let the stigma of substance abuse keep you from taking a path that can lead you forward to a healthier life.
In Closing
First responders are heroes, enduring situations that most people cannot, helping others in times of crisis despite dangers to themselves. It’s understandable that what they experience can lead to mental health and substance use struggles, and they deserve the support of everyone without judgment. If you are struggling, or you know someone who is, Bridges of Hope can provide you with information about treatment options. Recovery is possible.