EMTs and paramedics see people on some of the hardest days of their lives. They respond to crashes, serious injuries, violence, suicide, and sudden death. They also care for children and families during frightening emergencies.
These calls can stay with you.
Over time, repeated trauma can affect your mind and body. Some EMTs and paramedics may develop post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. PTSD is not a sign of weakness. It is a response to trauma, and help is available.
Why EMTs and Paramedics Can Develop PTSD
EMS professionals often see things that most people never see.
You may treat someone who is badly hurt. May work hard to save a patient who dies. You may respond to a child emergency or a violent scene.
Then you clean the truck, restock your supplies, and answer the next call.
There may be little time to process what just happened. Over months or years, that stress can build.
Signs of PTSD
PTSD does not look the same for everyone.
You may replay a call in your mind. You might have nightmares or unwanted memories. Sounds, smells, places, or certain types of calls may bring the memory back.
You may feel angry, sad, numb, guilty, or always on alert. Sleep can become difficult. You may have trouble focusing or feel tired much of the time.
Some people begin avoiding places, people, or conversations that remind them of a difficult call.
Your body may react too. Headaches, muscle tension, stomach problems, and a racing heart can happen when stress stays high.
Trauma Can Build Over Time
PTSD does not always come from one event.
For EMS professionals, it may come from years of difficult calls. One pediatric death, fatal crash, suicide, overdose, or violent scene may stay with you. Then another call gets added to it.
You may feel pressure to push it aside and keep working.
But you do not have to carry every call alone.
The Stress May Follow You Home
Your shift may end, but your mind may still be at the scene.
You might replay what happened and wonder what you could have done differently. You may become quiet or pull away from people you love.
Some people use alcohol or other substances to numb what they feel. Others work more, sleep less, or stop doing things they once enjoyed.
These can be signs that you need more support.
What Can Help?
Start with small steps.
Talk with someone you trust. A fellow EMT or paramedic may understand the weight of the job. Peer support, an employee assistance program, or a mental health professional can also help.
Take care of your body too. Sleep when you can. Eat regularly. Move your body. Spend time with people who help you feel safe and supported.
Grounding and breathing exercises can also help after a hard call.
Most of all, give yourself permission to feel what you feel.
When to Reach Out
You do not have to wait until you hit a breaking point.
Reach out if symptoms keep happening for several weeks. Get support if they affect your work, sleep, health, or relationships.
Also reach out if you feel hopeless, depend on alcohol or drugs to cope, or have thoughts of hurting yourself.
Getting help early can make a difference.
Asking for Help Is Part of Taking Care of Yourself
You spend your career taking care of other people.
You deserve that same care.
PTSD can be treated. People can heal. A difficult call does not have to control the rest of your life.
You are still the EMT, medic, partner, parent, friend, and person you were before the trauma.
One call at a time. One day at a time. Take care of the person behind the uniform, too.
