First Responder Culture: Implications for Mental Health Professionals Providing Services Following a Natural Disaster

Abstract

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Secondary traumatization in first responders: a systematic review

“…This systematic review shows low levels of secondary traumatization in first responders. However, it is possible that we have underestimated the prevalence rates owing to a positive response bias caused by social desirability or job-loss concerns (Kronenberg et al, 2008). Several studies described protective and risk factors for secondary traumatization, including pretraumatic, peritraumatic, and post-traumatic factors.…”

Emergency Mental Health: Lessons Learned From Flight 3407

“…This approach does not suggest that psychopathology is an immediate response to a disaster; instead the approach focuses on individuals' current needs and the provision of resources. 14,15 These resources include information on the status of disaster operations, coping techniques, practical assistance, as well as linkage with other services. 14,15 Emergency mental health team members are also required to complete training in the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and in the Incident Command System (ICS).…”

“…14,15 These resources include information on the status of disaster operations, coping techniques, practical assistance, as well as linkage with other services. 14,15 Emergency mental health team members are also required to complete training in the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and in the Incident Command System (ICS). NIMS/ICS create a common communication framework and organizational model to coordinate responses by a variety of agencies.…”

The impact of post-traumatic stress on first responders: analysis of cortisol, anxiety, depression, sleep impairment and pain

“…These occupational stressors have led a growing number of authors to suggest that psychological and physical ill effects may affect the first responder population, including the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Alexander and Klein, 2001;Bennett et al, 2004;Benedek et al, 2007;Guenthner, 2012;Pekevski, 2013;Rabjohn, 2013). The stress of responding to human tragedies is associated with PTSD rates among first responders, which are estimated to be between 6%-32%, a figure that researchers believe to be under-reported because first responders discourage complaints of psychological distress (Kronenber et al, 2008;Haugen et al, 2012).…”