Firefighters are at risk for a number of mental health problems. Even though resources and treatment for such issues are available today, the stigma associated with mental health often prohibits them from seeking help. As John Rose Oak Bluff mentions, much like time is critical when a firefighter is saving a life; the same degree of urgency is needed with behavioral healthcare in the fire service. Reducing mental health stigma is vital for the well-being of those who lay their lives on the line for others every day.
John Rose Oak Bluff provides a brief overview of the impact of mental health stigma in fire service
Due to the stigma surrounding mental health issues, many firefighters are often reluctant in seeking help, even when they are struggling emotionally or psychologically. Firefighters are trained to be resilient and to prioritize the needs of others above their own. Due to this, they might feel pressurized to suppress their emotions and try to deal with mental health issues independently. However, professional assistance is needed to manage and treat severe mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In case such conditions are left untreated, they may get worse over time.
A large number of firefighters believe that they are expected to “tough it out.” They ignore symptoms of mental health issues as they think that asking for support and assistance might indicate weakness or even put their jobs in jeopardy. Many firefighters also think that they are not vulnerable to mental health issues, as they might have already dealt with several challenging situations. However, despite the resiliency of firefighters, it is only natural for the human brain to become overwhelmed by repeated exposure to stress and trauma. Even the most experienced and well-adjusted firefighters can be at risk of eventually succumbing to a mental health issue related to their job. Unfortunately, due to the stigma surrounding mental health in the fire service, many of these firefighters do not seek professional help. The fear of judgment can prevent them from discussing their struggles with their colleagues or seeking support from mental health professionals. This causes them to suffer in silence and further isolate themselves, which can worsen mental health issues.
As John Rose Oak Bluff mentions, the impact of mental health stigma often extends beyond the individual firefighter to the entire department. If firefighters are unable or unwilling to address their mental health needs, it can affect their job performance, decision-making abilities, and interpersonal relationships. Untreated mental health issues can lead to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and even workplace accidents or injuries. To avoid such problems, fire departments must encourage open dialogue and productive conversations about mental health. While doing so may seem uncomfortable at first, it can significantly help in lowering the stigma for firefighters. Fire departments must foster an accepting environment for people seeking mental health services. Doing so should start by taking simple steps like changing the language used when talking about mental illness and seeking help. Rather than using negative words such as ‘weak’ or ‘crazy’, it is prudent to encourage people to talk about their feelings in a non-judgmental manner.
