Paramedics, PTSD, Alcohol & Substance Abuse
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious issue for paramedics, as they deal with traumatic events and high-stress situations through the course of their career. Unfortunately, developing PTSD is commonly known to lead to other mental health issues such as the abuse of drugs and alcohol.
If you or a loved one is a paramedic in Washington who is suffering from PTSD and a substance abuse problem, contact our Washington first responder and workers comp lawyers at Colburn law today. We can help you receive the compensation necessary to get the treatment you need.
Why Choose Us?
At Colburn Law, we are dedicated to helping first responders receive the help they deserve.
- We are one of the first law firms in Washington state to help first responders receive claims associated with PTSD.
- We represent first responders with their needs in mind. We listen to your case, and ensure we address all of your questions before we proceed with a comprehensive strategy toward recovery.
- Our initial consultations are always free, and we cater to your schedule to ensure we hear your case. We will not hesitate to meet with you at home, work, or our office – whichever is most convenient for you.
PTSD and Substance Abuse Statistics in Paramedics
Like other first responders, paramedics tend to have a higher rate of both PTSD and substance abuse due to the stressful nature of their occupation.
- A 2012 study concluded that paramedics may have the highest rate of PTSD among all first responders, with a 14.6% prevalence rate. By contrast, firefighters had a 7.3% prevalence rate.
- A survey by the University of Phoenix found that 34% of the paramedics surveyed were formally diagnose with PTSD.
- EMTs are up to 10 times more likely to be at risk of suicide compared to the rest of the general population.
- A sample of paramedic trainees surveyed found that 16% had already experienced symptoms of PTSD, while 23% had already turned to alcohol abuse.
Why Do I Need a Lawyer?
Although an attorney may not be able to help you receive treatment, he or she can help you receive support through a worker’s compensation claim. This can help facilitate any formal treatment that was not otherwise possible due to financial constraints.
Additionally, a lawyer who is experienced in PTSD claims can help direct you to a proper course of action for treatment of any mental health-related issues. Taking care of these actions on your behalf can give you the help you need – especially when you’re in a condition where you cannot help yourself.
We Can Help You Seek Treatment
Self-medicating with drugs and alcohol to get through the stresses of a traumatic day is simply unsustainable. At Colburn law, we can help advise you through your industrial insurance claim, so that you can use your benefits toward a formal treatment plan. This may include:
- Psychiatric evaluations
- Rehabilitation, including a detox stage
- Residential treatment
- Continued therapy for a licensed professional
Contact Us Today
PTSD can be a crippling disorder, especially if you are a paramedic – but receiving compensation through an industrial insurance claim can help you get the treatment you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case, and let us help you get on the road to full recovery.