When you think of post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), you probably imagine the victims of severe crashes, military combat survivors, refugees, etc. However, did you know that many first-responders also experience PTSD because of doing their job? It is a reality for many workers whose job entails keeping a person alive, which doesn’t always happen.

Not many people realize the trauma emergency medical treatment (EMT) personnel experience when they feel they have failed a person and their loved ones. Situations of extreme need often raise emotions and the desire to help and to save those who are suffering. But workers also need to preserve and protect their mental health when faced with catastrophic work situations.

Signs of PTSD

If you or a loved one suspects PTSD, then you need to know what signs to look out for. Here are the most common signs that a person is suffering from post-traumatic stress syndrome:

• Uncontrollable flashbacks, thoughts, and nightmares
• Blank emotions
• Extreme feelings of guilt, anger, etc.
• Triggers of emotional responses through places, people, and things
• Lack of interest in usual activities
• Easily startled and on-edge
• Insomnia
• Alcohol and drug abuse

Legal help for PTSD

Developing PTSD after a work-related incident or over time through the nature of your job, might make you eligible for workers’ compensation. Your mental health as an EMT worker is crucial for the type of work you are involved in. Sometimes places of employment make it difficult to get what you deserve regarding compensation. Legal help is available to employees who suffer from traumatic experiences on-the-job.

Victims of trauma are not only those directly involved in an accident or injury. Sometimes it is the first-responders who shoulder the burdens and carry the weight of trauma and guilt. There is help and hope for those who are seeking proper compensation for medical needs related to PTSD issues.