First Responder Liaisons at Bedrock

First responders have demanding jobs that involve witnessing a variety of traumatic injuries, experiencing life-threatening situations, and being exposed to hazardous materials.

Emergency responders may turn to drug or alcohol use to cope with these stressors, which may lead to substance abuse and addiction.

Bedrock Recovery Center offers first responder liaisons to first responders living with substance use disorders who undergo treatment at our facility.

Substance Abuse Rates Among First Responders

Emergency responders often experience ongoing symptoms of distress that may lead to substance use, such as depression and sleep disturbances.

The prevalence of alcohol abuse among emergency response workers ranges from 16 to 40%.

Alcohol consumption and smoking are the primary forms of substance abuse among first responders, but the overuse of painkillers is also more common than in the general population.

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) found up to 29% of firefighters engage in alcohol abuse, and as many as ten percent may be abusing prescription drugs.

A 2010 study of police officers found that 11% of male officers and 16% of female officers reported alcohol use levels that the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) classified as at risk.

Factors That Increase The Risk Of Substance Abuse In First Responders

Given that substance abuse associated with experienced trauma may cause both professional and personal long-term adverse outcomes, it is important to understand the factors that may contribute to substance use among first responders.

Stress

Stress is a common risk factor in the development of addiction and vulnerability to relapse.

Sources of stress for front-line responders may include witnessing human suffering, the risk of personal harm, life and death decisions, and separation from family.

Stress experienced by law enforcement, EMTs, and other emergency management positions may lead to burnout or secondary traumatic stress, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

PTSD and substance use disorders frequently co-occur. Around 36 to 50% of people with PTSD experience substance use disorders.

Trauma

Studies have found that high rates of trauma exposure are often present among both males and females who abuse substances.

First responder response teams and task forces are a crucial part of ensuring public safety; however, they often witness traumatic events daily, including death and injury.

First responders experience chronic trauma, which is trauma that continues for months or years at a time.

Chronic trauma may cause an individual to have episodes of dissociation, feelings of guilt, shame, or helplessness, and distorted perceptions, which may lead to substance use.

Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders

Due to the trauma that first responders experience, 30 percent of staff members develop behavioral health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Substance use is commonly connected with co-occurring mental health disorders, including depression and PTSD.

People diagnosed with PTSD, which is common in first responders, are 14 times more likely to be diagnosed with substance use disorders.

Low Levels Of Support

Social support for first responders is crucial in preventing substance use.

Studies have found supportive and approachable leaders and camaraderie among staff members helped with the well-being of first responders.

Having high levels of social support was associated with a reduced risk of behavioral health issues.

At the same time, poor relationships with coworkers and supervisors often lead to PTSD, which increases the risk of substance abuse.

The Role Of First Responder Liaisons At Bedrock

First responder liaisons at Bedrock Recovery Center help patients feel validated and supported by discussing unique concerns in their position, community, or ongoing treatment.

Peer-Led Group Therapy

Peer-led group therapy at Bedrock is led by a first responder who has completed the program or recovered from substance abuse at a different health care facility.

Through their shared experiences, the facilitator and the rest of the group have people who truly understand life as a first responder and the unique cultural norms of that group.

Meeting Frequency

First responder liaisons meet twice a month at Bedrock Recovery Center.

Based on the individual’s treatment needs, these meetings may be provided alongside other treatment services, such as medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and detoxification.

Additional Perks Of The First Responder Program

Several additional perks are included in the program, including extra gym time, assessment, and targeted groups.

Our staff can also provide referrals to community outreach programs in your area after initial treatment is completed.

Who Qualifies For First Responder Liaisons?

Various individuals trained in emergency preparedness qualify for first responder liaisons, including veterans, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians (EMT).

Learn More About Addiction Treatment For First Responders

If you or a loved one are a first responder and seeking addiction treatment, we can help. Contact Bedrock Recovery Center to get more information about our services.