The heart and mind behind the badge: Effect of Trauma
The definition of trauma reads as follows: trauma occurs as a result of a severely distressing event. Trauma is often the result of an overwhelming amount of stress that exceeds one's ability to cope, or integrate the emotions involved with that experience. Let us first look deeper into this definition. A severely distressing event entails any event with an element of surprise that is overwhelming in nature to that person; this could include crime related events, natural disasters and not forgetting developmental trauma. All these mentioned can result in an overpowering amount of stress hindering the person’s capacity to normal functioning.
What does this have to do with Emergency Services staff? Well I would say, everything. Firstly, every Emergency Services member is human. We all would want to believe that they are superhuman and hero’s, and of course, hero’s they are, but they are flesh and blood with loads of emotions that they mostly need to pack away neatly as not to “disturb” their clients in need, not load more stress upon their colleagues and place their loved one’s in the difficult position of being worried about them. Why not? Because they are supposed to be the strong ones among us.
Facing every trauma mentionable through the course of just one month, they choose to serve, to save, to give. With open hearts and arms they give their all so we can be safe and cared for. But what is the footprint this may leave on them? Secondary trauma is what comes to mind. Let me explain… Each call out or scene leaves somewhat of a lasting impression. Some calls because of their severity others the emotional impact it leaves on the member and then there are those that all emergency members work towards, the one’s that make them smile and sigh saying, that felt good. Although all scenes should make them feel this way as they create change and save lives, it’s just not that simple. Every individual already has a history with information, add to that, everyday stressors such as traffic, finances, life at home and occupational aggravations; being screamed and sworn at, assaulted for doing what is right or needed, mixed with a load of traumatic events. Everything layers up, something like an onion, one on top of the other, consuming the person. If and when trauma has already been experienced, adding any of the already mentioned stressors, the person can easily experience secondary trauma.
Another concern that stems from trauma and secondary trauma is where it all leads. In many cases these events are “carried” with the person adding more and more stressors as each day conclude and without knowing and facing these stressors the smallest of instances can trigger a flare-up. In the short -term symptoms can consist of irregular sleeping patterns, over tiredness as a result thereof, headaches, eating disorders, digestive problems up to avoidance and emotional instability. Symptoms can escalate to long-term that include social indifference and passiveness, disorganisation and disorientation.
Not acknowledging and acting on any of the signs and symptoms, not searching for support and working towards healing can possibly lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The description of which is - a mental health condition that's triggered by a disturbing incident; either undergoing it or observing it. Symptoms may include recurring uncontrollable memories about the event, nightmares and severe anxiety or nervousness.
Several emergency services members perceive it as an embarrassment to acknowledge they are in need of professional support. This I want to assure you is quite normal, but most definitely not necessary. Feeling vulnerable is not a weakness – and seeking guidance shows strength, the willingness to change and work towards healing.
Although reading this can be stressful enough I would like to urge you to acquire support. It does not have to be with Unit’s / Department / Station’s Counsellor or Social Worker and there is no need to shout it from the rooftops, it is a private matter and should be handled as such, but please reach out, to heal and strive towards a contented well-adjusted life.
Mariette Wilbers