Mental Health Matters: Innovative Programs for Firefighters with PTSD
According to a 2016 report, 17% of Canadian firefighters grapple with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a stark contrast to the 1% prevalence of the same condition within the general population.
However, the actual figures may be higher among firefighters, considering the tendency of many of them, predominantly men, to be hesitant in seeking help or acknowledging trauma.
This reluctance stems from societal expectations that value strength and machismo, leading them to perceive seeking assistance as a sign of weakness.
The clinicians at Diversified Rehabilitation Group are experts in first responder occupational health and stress management. In this blog post, we’ll highlight innovative treatments for firefighter PTSD.
What are Some Innovative Treatments for Firefighters with PTSD?
There are innovative treatments specifically designed for firefighters with PTSD, offering tailored solutions that cater to the unique experiences and challenges firefighters face.
They include:
Positive Psychology
Positive Psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on the positive aspects of human experience and well-being.
Unlike traditional psychology, which often concentrates on treating mental illness and dysfunction, positive psychology approaches in PTSD treatment help firefighters coping with trauma and other clients to understand and promote the factors that contribute to a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Dr. Martin Seligman, a world-renowned researcher and psychologist, has been credited as the “Father of Positive Psychology.” He conceptualized PERMA – five essential elements contributing to a fulfilling and flourishing life.
This framework, along with other evidence-based approaches, is applicable as an innovative treatment for firefighters with PTSD. Each letter in PERMA stands for a different aspect:
- Positive Emotion (P): This element focuses on experiencing positive feelings and emotions such as joy, gratitude, serenity, interest, and hope.
- Engagement (E): When individuals are fully engaged in enjoyable and rewarding activities, it enhances their overall happiness.
- Relationships (R): Healthy and positive relationships with others are fundamental to well-being. Social connections, support, and a sense of belonging contribute significantly to a firefighter’s happiness and life satisfaction.
- Meaning (M): Finding meaning and purpose in life is crucial for well-being. This involves having a sense of direction, feeling that one’s life has significance, and being connected to something greater than oneself.
- Accomplishment (A): Accomplishing tasks and realizing one’s potential contribute to fulfillment and well-being.
Gratitude Practices
This approach encourages firefighters to reflect on and express gratitude for the positive aspects of their lives, fostering a more optimistic outlook.
It would be helpful for firefighters to regularly write down things they are thankful for in a dedicated journal. This can include people, experiences, or even simple daily occurrences.
Exposure Therapy
Exposure therapy is a therapeutic technique commonly used in the treatment of anxiety disorders, PTSD, and certain phobias.
The primary goal of exposure therapy is to help individuals confront and overcome their fears or traumatic experiences by gradually exposing them to the source of their anxiety in a controlled and therapeutic manner.
Biofeedback
Biofeedback employs brain waves to teach the brain how to relax. It’s an advanced technique aimed at lessening anxiety and irritability often linked with PTSD.
By becoming more aware of and learning to control physiological responses, firefighters coping with trauma may develop skills to reduce stress, alleviate symptoms, and improve overall well-being.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy (or talk therapy) that teaches clients how to pinpoint and change destructive or disturbing thought patterns that have a negative influence on their behaviour and emotions.
Clients are empowered to challenge and replace these negative thoughts with objective and realistic ones.
CBT is a top innovative treatment used for depression, PTSD, and anxiety.
Innovative Mental Wellness Program for Firefighters at Diversified Rehabilitation Group in Kenowa, BC
At Diversified Rehabilitation Group, we provide a comprehensive five-week residential rehabilitation program specifically designed for traumatic stress recovery.
Our program for mental wellness incorporates the approaches listed above, along with evidence-based therapies like CBT in our innovative treatments. We tailor it for firefighters coping with PTSD, and we recognize that effective healing of post-traumatic injuries (PSI) requires addressing all aspects of an individual.
Our approach is evidence-based, holistic, and collaborative, emphasizing a small group size with cohesive cohorts of first responders. This ensures a supportive environment that enhances healing and yields optimal results.
Contact us today to get trauma support for firefighters.
