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Mental Health of Paramedics

Mental health. Adverse events. Trauma. Paramedics are unfortunately repeatedly exposed to potentially traumatic events with a common outcome of mental disorders such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or major depression. Predictors such as behavioural traits, maladaptive post-traumatic cognitions, cognitive responses to memories of traumatic events, and social support can be modified through training and coping strategies, however, predictors such as psychiatric history are unmodifiable. Rumination is reportedly common for PTSD patients, therefore presents as a core intervention target for PTSD cognitive therapy. Being in such a diverse and demanding field, I have studied the negative effects on mental health that paramedics endure.  Mental health issues negatively impact work productivity, physical illnesses and disorder, burnout, organisation skills, work and social attendance, and quality of care provided for patients. (Wild, et al., 2016).

Wild, J., Smith, K. V., Thompson, E., Béar, F., Lommen, M. J. J., & Ehlers, A. (2016). A prospective study of pre-trauma risk factors for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Psychological Medicine, 46(12), 2571-2582. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291716000532


I have personally experienced several changes due to episodes of depression throughout my career including significant weight fluctuations, decreased motivation and productivity, and isolation. Fortunately, I adopted strategies such as a daily goal of at least 30min exercise or physical activity, meal preparation for best nutritional intake, and meditation to allow for refreshed and peaceful cognition which decreases my risk of further mental and physical health issues. Additionally, keeping up my social support and connecting with friends and family regularly to allow them to bring some distraction and happiness into my life, whilst offering an ear to vent to when I’m struggling. In my experience predispositions such as personality, coping strategies, and prior traumatic experiences contribute to increased risk of mental health issues.

I seek further professional support during my lowest days which consists of phone consultations and in person appointments with Beyond Blue. Beyond Blue is a mental health resource I frequently promote and use to provide support for anxiety, depression, and suicide prevention amongst all Australians. Please don’t ever be afraid to speak up. Remember, it’s ok to not be ok. Beyond Blue


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