Beyond Crisis Response: Characterizing First Responder Interest in Mental Health Services

Abstract

Compared to the general public, first responders are at increased risk for mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD. Emergency medical services (EMS) organizations have identified the increased need for mental health programs to support first responders. Worksite mental health programs must be tailored to the needs and preferences of employees in order to be effective. The goal of this research is to identify predisposing variables to characterize first responder interest in workplace mental health services. Secondary data analysis was performed on the 2018 Seattle-King County Wellness survey, which was administered to nearly 1,000 first responders. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was performed for three outcome variables: mindfulness training, 1-1 counseling with a mental health provider, and programs that focus on coworkers showing signs of stress. In general, first responders report high interest in these three programs (57.2%, 67.4%, and 76.0% respectively). The strongest association across all three programs was attitude towards mental health services. Perceived need characteristics, such as PTSD and functional impairment, are associated with increased interest in different types of worksite mental health services. The results indicate that first responders likely view mental health services as viable forms of secondary and tertiary intervention, rather than a form of prevention and mental health promotion. Health communications efforts may need to specifically address negative attitudes towards mental health services in order to increase first responder interest. EMS organizations may find that leveraging the strong bond formed between first responders to be a useful strategy for reframing workplace mental health services.