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First Responder Resilience and Operational Stress:���“Risk factors, potential outcomes and why resilience matters in tumultuous times”�

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Some stats…

According to the US Bureau of Justice Statistics:

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  • There are approximately 800,000 Police Officers in the United States.
  • Statistics show that 20% to 25% of working police officers are chemically dependent on either alcohol or drugs. (Police – The Law Enforcement Magazine)
  • Statistically, that translates to 200,000 Police Officers battling addiction.

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Additional stats…

  • 400,000 career Firefighters and an additional 750,000 Volunteers (according to the NFPA)

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  • 250,000 full time EMTs and Paramedics and an additional 600,000 volunteers (according to the CDC)

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Mental Health stats…

A recent survey published by the University of Phoenix found:

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  • 85 % of first responders have experienced issues related to their mental health (through cumulative and vicarious trauma)
  • 55 % of first responders believe their supervisor will treat them differently if they mention their mental health concerns 
  • 69 % said mental health services are seldom or never utilized

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* 1 in 5 families will experience a mental health crisis*

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Conclusion

  • “ The stigma that comes with mental health treatment holds them back from seeking help even though the resources are available”.

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www.helping1stresponders.com��william.mazur@acadiahealthcare.com��