The Line Between Potential Trauma and PTSD

In recent years, discussing one’s emotional response to difficult calls has become less stigmatized for police officers, firefighters, and paramedics. As a result, they can now be more open about their experiences and receive support.

However, despite this progress, many still hesitate to share their internal challenges in the aftermath of a disturbing incident, out of fear of appearing weak or unreliable.

Furthermore, the criticism they anticipate from others becomes internalized, and they start to doubt themselves.

In this post, I outline how certain symptoms in response to tragic events are not only normal but part of the healing process. And if those symptoms do pass the threshold of PTSD, they are neither incurable nor anything to be ashamed of.  

The Event Versus The Reaction

Many of the things first responders witness regularly are what psychologists call potentially traumatic events, but “potentially” is the operative word. The same incident could result in a more severe reaction in one person than another.

Also, if the first responder does experience distressing symptoms immediately after witnessing a tragedy, they may dissipate with the passage of time. It is completely normal and common for people to have disturbing dreams, intrusive thoughts, and vivid flashbacks during the first few days or weeks following a potentially traumatic event.

Clinicians wait at least one month before assessing for PTSD, because that diagnosis is only considered if symptoms persist for that long.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All

The best course of action in response to potentially traumatic events is individualized. Some people benefit from immediately reflecting on an experience or talking through the emotions and thoughts that resulted from it. Others may need more time to ease into discussing the event to avoid becoming emotionally overwhelmed.

However, one general recommendation is not to intentionally block out your feelings or thoughts. For instance, using drugs or alcohol to numb psychological pain usually exacerbates it in the long-term and may increase the probability of PTSD.

Move through your emotional response at your own pace, but don’t sweep your feelings under the rug.

All Experiences Are Valid

Whether you struggle temporarily with symptoms or lasting signs of PTSD, you deserve support and should feel no embarrassment in seeking it.

First responders deal with levels of pressure, stress, and catastrophe that many of us can only imagine. Receiving help from a loved one, a friend, or a mental health professional can assist you in processing these events and integrating rather than ruminating on them.

I offer confidential treatments specifically designed for recovery from potentially traumatic events. If you’d like to see if we’re a good fit for each other, please feel free to book a consultation.

I would be honoured to help you recover from and prepare for the tragedies you courageously confront.