St. Luke’s University Health Network launched a support program for first responders suffering on-the-job post-traumatic stress disorder and other trauma-related side effects.

The service includes symptom evaluation, communication and coping skills training, medication management and a variety of therapies, provided by psychiatrists and therapists both virtually and in person.

Some of the symptoms of emotional burnout include fatigue, depression, sleep problems, guilt, anger and more. First responders may need to improve their coping skills or receive some kind of mental health therapy, says James James, DO, Vice Chairman of Behavioral Health for the health network.

“Sometimes, a single incident, or repeated exposures to horrific situations, can erode a rescuer’s emotional resilience if not addressed,” James said. The St. Luke’s program was started after he learned from several first responders that few local resources exist to help this group, and when they do, first responders rarely access them.

John Semonich, St. Luke’s EMS liaison, long-time paramedic and collaborator with James, said working long hours and multiple jobs, witnessing on-the-job trauma and violence and the don’t-discuss-it culture among first responders can create an unhealthy mix.

“It’s estimated that over 70 percent of first responders work two jobs and often overtime to make ends meet,” Semonich said “We often don’t take care of ourselves,” he added, which can lead to dangerous behaviors like overeating, lack of adequate sleep and substance abuse and alcohol issues, causing relationship, physical and financial troubles.

He said it can take months or years of treatment to manage, reverse or resolve the issues, symptoms and side-effects that come with this caring occupation. “But in the long run, it’s a start on a healthy road, which is better than letting the stress continue to snowball and possibly lead to traumatic consequences among this group of dedicated professionals.”

To make an appointment, call 484-526-2400.