First responders are often exposed to critical incidents and the cumulative effects of witnessing human suffering and tragedies. While trained to handle the most critical incidents like homicides, accidental death, natural disasters, and active shooter events, the daily accumulation of stress, anxiety, and trauma are rarely addressed. Such exposure can weaken the mental well-being of first responders and affect their ability to perform their duties to the public and live healthy lives outside of work. The potential long-term effects of trauma in first responders may lead to behavioral dysfunction such as substance abuse, aggression, and suicide.

• According to FBI statistics, between 5-10% of law enforcement officers experiencing a very traumatic event will develop moderate to severe PTSD.
• First responder resignation rates are much higher than other professions.
• Job-hopping is common.
• First responder divorce rate is 15-25% higher than the general population.
• Law enforcement suicides occur at twice the rate of line-of-duty deaths from felonious action.
• Law Enforcement Suicide Data Collection (LESDC)

It is imperative that we encourage our first responders to reach out for assistance in order to keep them well.