PTSD and Coping Mechanisms in the Fire Service

Abstract

Emergency service workers, or more specifically firefighters, witness life threatening events throughout the course of performing their duties on a regular basis, placing them at higher risk for developing PTSD. Although this is the case, research pertaining to PTSD in the fire service is rather limited. Coping mechanisms also play a significant role in one's propensity for developing PTSD.

This study was conducted using an Internet survey with the Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts (PFFM) in order to evaluate the factors associated with PTSD symptom levels. The study investigated the relationship between repeated exposure due to both call volume and time in service, and evaluated coping mechanisms used by the firefighters. As expected, there was a positive association between repeated exposure and an increase in PTSD symptom scores. The study also shows a relationship between coping mechanisms and the firefighter's PTSD symptom score. The study also confirms previous research that presented evidence that mindfulness and meditation can play a significant role in the prevention of PTSD symptom scores.