Emergency responders battle everything from fires to terrorist threats. These modern-day heroes should receive all the support they need to thrive outside of work. Yet, there are many instances where first responders suffer neglect from a society that does not understand all that goes into a day on the job. Even close family members and friends may turn a blind eye and deaf ear to the issues that emergency responders face as a result of seeing humanity at its worst state on a daily basis.
With all that emergency responders deal with, and given the lack of support from society at large, it is little wonder why many police officers, firefighters, and emergency services staff like EMTs and paramedics become addicted to drugs and alcohol. In fact, about 30 percent of first responders develop mental issues that may lead to drug abuse during their time of service.
What can you or a loved one do if substance abuse is an issue? Read on to learn more about Quest 2 Recovery and how we help first responders recover from drug and alcohol abuse.
First responders face a tremendous amount of stress and trauma while serving on the front lines. With this being the case, it is no wonder why the first responder culture is surrounded by drinking. Drinking allows you to take the edge off of things when everything around you is high tensity and stressful. Even though this may be the “culture,” this can lead to addiction issues. As a first responder, it is very easy to fall to addiction. The worst part about it is most first responders will not reach out to get the proper help needed. They may feel guilty or shameful that they need help and this can cause the addiction to get a firmer grip on them.
When it comes to addiction, it is very easy to fall into addiction without realizing the hole that gets created. Before you know it, the substance of your choice will have a grip on you and wont let go. You may be considered a substance abuser if you:
The first thing that individuals who engage in alcohol and drug abuse typically tell themselves and others is that they can quit at any time. The reality, however, is that if you could get rid of your addiction without assistance, then they would do so before the habit wreaks havoc on everything and everyone they love. This is often not the case though.
The safest way to beat is addiction is to seek professional help that offers medical attention as well as emotional support on your journey to recovery. At Quest 2 Recovery, we offer a program specifically for first responders for addiction and mental health disorders.
The average person may not be completely aware of the stages of drug & alcohol abuse. Emergency responders, however, have seen the stages and know the consequences of prolonged substance abuse. The average police officer has encountered someone who has lost everything due to drug addiction. Likewise, EMTs and paramedics have treated dozens of overdose patients and, thus, feel like they can control their personal addiction before things go too far.
The reality is that there is a difference between being an observer and user. The observer is capable of establishing and maintaining boundaries because he is sober. The user, on the other hand, may set boundaries that he cannot keep because of his addiction. First responders who abuse drugs and alcohol, then, should be considered along with those who they treat for the disorder. It is only when a true intervention reveals the truth of the abuser having a problem that he or she can begin to heal.
We have a first responders program specifically aimed at emergency personnel who use alcohol and drugs to cope with the stresses of the job. We know that many police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services staff endure post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as anxiety and depression. They may be too afraid to share their struggles with co-workers or loved ones because of the stigma associated with mental illness in the United States.
Our program is designed to address mental health head-on by bringing the symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression to light. We then guide the recovering individual into a better space so that he or she can work through the issues that led up to their choice to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol.
At Quest 2 Recovery, we’re dedicated to exploring all of the root issues of our clients addiction. Our staff exercises compassion so that our clients feel comfortable opening up about their thoughts and feelings.
During the detoxification phase of treatment in our first responders program, you can expect 24/7 care in a comfortable setting dedicated to your health.
Our residential inpatient treatment is the core of our program for first responders. Our Southern California location provides the perfect backdrop for your journey of sustainable recovery from drugs & alcohol.
We ensure that each and every client has the proper aftercare plan including outpatient and sober living options for clients in order to provide continued care & treatment for chemical dependency, PTSD, and other mental health issues. We work closely with your department to ensure a judgement-free experience when getting help.
Many times those suffering from substance abuse can also have co-occurring mental illness that can become a barrier to success in recovery. We evaluate each client and provide treatment based on YOUR needs when seeking recovery.
Quest 2 Recovery is proud to offer Neurotherapy as a part of our treatment services in Southern California for First-Responders. Learn more about Neurotherapy.
One of the most important aspects of our program is the aftercare planning phase of treatment. Here we make sure you are ready to re-enter society and remain clean & sober once you leave our doors.
We understand that the stresses of being a first responder may be overwhelming. Sometimes you turn to alcohol and drug abuse to cope with things that you do not feel at liberty to discuss with family and friends. Let us help you deal with life’s issues in a more productive manner. Call us today to get on the path of sobriety!
First responders are commonly confronted with addicts and troubled people in their work, so they often think that they could never abuse substances as well. In addition, many people in these professions are embarassed to admit they have a problem. Finally, there may be a culture of drinking within their coworkers.
First responders have to be in many stressful situations in their work. The trauma of seeing others’ trauma can increase the chance of substance abuse as a means of escape.
Detox, Residential Inpatient, Neurotherapy, Dual-Diagnosis, Interventions, and Aftercare
© 2023 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Quest 2 Recovery | Privacy Policy | Sitemap