Graduation Year

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor in Psychology (Psy. D.)

Abstract

First responders are vital to our safety and protection, but this does not come without a price. First responders are often exposed to life threatening situations that put them at risk, and are exposed to those in critical condition, and unfortuantely, those who have died. This makes first responders more at risk to develop mental health conditions, particulalrly Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. (PTSD). First Responders were found to be more likely compared to civilians to develop PTSD. They were also more likely to experience suicidal ideation. First responders who met criteria for a PTSD diagnosis were also more likely to have sucidial ideation that those without PTSD. This article also explores possible reasions why first responders are more likely to die by suicide compared to the civilian population. Lastly, the stigma within this population has the potential to create barriers to treatment, and seeking help. Reducing the stignma and nomralizing mental health in this population can be helpful in getting those who suffer in silence the treatment they deserve.

Faculty Mentor

Melinda Moore, Ph.D

Department Affiliation

Psychology

Committee Member

Theresa Botts, Ph.D

Department Affiliation

Psychology

Committee Member

Jerry Palmer, Ph.D

Department Affiliation

Psychology

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