Treating PTSD for First Responders


IOH is highlighting individuals making an impact and exemplifying excellence in the field of Workers’ Compensation. This month we sit down with PTSD / First Responder experts Dr. Alan Acre, Psy.D. | Clinical Director, Advanced PTSD Clinic and Donald Olsen | Clinical Coordinator, First Responder Unit. First responders throughout the nation experience repeated exposure to traumatic events and have been known to suffer from related insomnia, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. They spend their careers helping others, but often are reluctant to ask for help. If left untreated suicidal ideation and behavior can become a critical issue. Even when suicide does not occur, untreated PTSD can lead to poor physical health including hypertension, impaired decision-making, problems in the workplace and needless disability. This interview will discuss the targeted support and treatment offerings available for first responders suffering from PTSD and the goal of increasing career longevity and overall improvement in their quality of life.