Mental health of first responders in the context of road traffic accidents: a review of long-term psychological consequences

Abstract

<ns3:p>Emergency service personnel providing assistance at the scene of traffic accidents are among the occupational groups particularly at risk of long-term psychological consequences. Repeated exposure to traumatic events, combined with high professional responsibility and limited utilization of the available support mechanisms, contributes to the development of mental health disorders such as anxiety disorders, depression, adjustment disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The aim of this article is to analyse the prevalence and determinants of these problems among paramedics, firefighters, and police officers, taking into account the role of organizational factors. The paper also discusses co-occurrence of secondary phenomena, including occupational burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and sleep disturbances. Presented data highlights the need to implement integrated prevention and intervention strategies, including early identification of risks, training in recognizing signs of crisis, and fostering an organizational culture that promotes positive attitudes towards mental health.</ns3:p>

Affiliated Institutions

• Instytut Transportu Samochodowego PL

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