Knowing how to help firefighters recover from psychological issues attributed to the job is essential to ensuring they are okay. Firefighting is a notoriously strenuous job. First responders in this field must be able to run quickly, endure contaminated conditions, and lift human bodies. The job’s physical demands aren’t the only source of stress, though. Many firefighters also deal with psychological strain that can compromise their health and well-being.

The Best Methods to Help Firefighters Recover from Psychological Issues

First responder health insurance can combat this problem, but departments need to do more to support struggling firefighters.

Find Resources in First Responder Health Insurance

First responder health statistics indicate that up to 37% of firefighters may have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD usually involves symptoms such as flashbacks, anxiety, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts. Many firefighters encounter tragedy and trauma on the job, which is unsurprising. Health insurance that caters to first responders must include sufficient coverage for counseling, psychiatric services, and other healthcare resources that can benefit mental health. When firefighters have access to these resources, they’re more likely to get help.

Create a Culture of Communication and Support

Sufficient coverage for mental health services can undoubtedly benefit firefighters, but it’s not enough to tackle the problem. First responders face various psychological challenges every day, and unfortunately, many feel alone in their struggles. Fire departments should fight against this stigma by cultivating an environment that emphasizes communication and offers support. For example, a first responder mental health resilience program can help first responders connect with their colleagues and establish mutual support. The pressure to conceal feelings only exacerbates the mental health epidemic among firefighters.

Identify the Signs of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress

Fire department leadership must also learn how to recognize the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. These symptoms look different in everybody, but they may include bouts of apparent sadness, an inability to concentrate, or a loss of interest in activities. If a firefighter starts to exhibit any of these issues, leadership should take the time to investigate the matter and provide the individual with resources for support. Leadership should also remind anybody struggling that it is normal and acceptable to deal with psychological consequences due to the job.

Invest in the Right First Responder Health insurance

There are many strategies that fire departments may employ to support staff who are struggling with mental health issues. The most effective is offering access to first responder health insurance that covers mental healthcare services. Many firefighters won’t want to engage in communal discussions of their struggles, but they may be comfortable seeking help from a private mental health practitioner. The right insurance allows them to do this. Insurance agents can help fire departments thrive by offering them the right insurance coverage options, including mental healthcare policies.

About Provident Fire Plus

At Provident Fire Plus, we offer custom tailored packages to best protect firefighters and volunteer firefighters. We understand the risks that emergency response teams are subjected to on a daily basis, and have worked to serve these dedicated professionals for over 87 years. For more information about our products and policies, we invite you to contact our experts today at (855) 201-8880.