ST. LOUIS, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- First responders are equipped and trained to handle various emergency situations but workplace stress can take a toll on their emotions, U.S. researchers say.
Dr. Miggie Greenberg of Saint Louis University School of Medicine says different people react to traumatic situations differently. It's not uncommon to experience a broad range of emotions -- it's actually quite normal and healthy, Greenberg says.
The challenge with first responders is that they are trained to deal with high-intensity situations without emotionally reacting so the aftermath can be that much more devastating. Additionally, those who have experienced some type of trauma in the past are more likely to react adversely to a traumatic event, Greenberg says.
Some normal reactions include being in shock, feeling sad, acting more emotional, having intrusive thoughts about an incident and behaving in a hyper-vigilant manner, Greenberg says.
These should fade over time. However, when one's day-to-day routine is frequently sidetracked by such reactions, this may be evidence of major distress, Greenberg says.
Some signs of psychological distress include constant anxiety, inexplicable crying, erratic behavior, isolation, and the increase use of drugs and/or alcohol. This distress may require professional treatment, Greenberg says.
