Kent Hinkson, Utah Valley University
Social and Behavioral Sciences
PTSD has become increasingly more concerning to the mental health world over the past few decades. A plethora of events (both acute and chronic) that serve as a triggering moment in the lives of those afflicted by this potentially debilitating condition are beginning to be identified more consistently. Yet, it continues to remain an area of concern because of the manner in which it affects nearly every aspect of its victim’s life.
Prevention and early-intervention are two key areas of the battle against any disease. This study looks to identify some potential resiliency factors and warning signs of suicidality and PTSD among Emergency Medical Services personnel. A pair of hypotheses were examined utilizing 668 surveys from a 2010 inquiry of 7000 state EMS employees: 1) There is no significant difference between Utah EMS personnel whom recently considered suicide and those that did not and 2) There is no significant difference between Utah EMS personnel who are presenting PTSD symptoms.
Findings from those who had suicidal thoughts were significantly worse in the areas of stress, anger, financial difficulties, PTSD, occupational burnout, and poor personal life. Findings from those who had suffered from symptoms of PTSD measured worse in the areas of intensity, stress, anxiety, anger, increased substance abuse, occupational burnout, and poor personal life.
Analysis of these results have identified potential resiliency factors against suicide in the areas of time away from EMS activities, sufficient sleep, and healthy personal relationships. These same potential resiliency factors are found in the analysis for those who suffer from PTSD symptoms.
It is important to watch for warning signs (and thus be able to address possible suicidal ideation and PTSD), while promoting healthy habits that could potentially save our firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, and hospital staff that do such a good job of safeguarding our society.