4th Annual WML Academic Symposium

This research conveys the prevalence and predictors of mental health issues among first responders. Despite the psychological effect of witnessing high stress, traumatic events, mental health fails to be a major topic of discussion among Emergency Management professionals. Issues of mental health can clearly interfere with a first responder’s ability to operate on the job, making such concerns relevant and pressing. This research provides an update on first responders’ mental well-being and examines predictors of trauma-related symptoms through analysis of multiple case studies. By acknowledging that first responders are at risk of developing mental health complications, advocacy, intervention and prevention policies may be implemented to address the issue.