First Responders and Addiction

First Responders are the first to arrive in times of crisis and usually the last to seek help for an addiction. Unfortunately, not enough rehab centers recognize the need for a first responders addiction treatment program that allows for a safe and productive space for recovery.

A recent study by the U.S. Department of Health found that 23% of first responders suffer from drug or alcohol addictions versus 8% of the general population. Frequently exposed to traumatic events, they are also high risk for developing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – a mental illness that makes people more prone to alcoholism and suicide.

The Crisis No One Talks About

These problems not only harm first responders, but also the people officers are supposed to protect. Substance abuse impairs judgement in emergency situations, endangers lives, and adds to the public’s growing mistrust of police officers and other emergency workers.

Instead of addressing addiction problems, public safety organizations sweep them under the rug and maintain traditional work cultures that discourage asking for help. Scared to show any sign of weakness, public safety officers also often keep their problems secret.

The non-profit Safe Call Now is a referral resource and crisis hotline for emergency service personnel in need of emotional support. Its mission is to end the culture of silence and stigma of addiction in public safety professions.

Safe Call Now partnered with Morningside Recovery to refer first responders to addiction treatment. Joel Edwards, Executive Director at Morningside Recovery, created a specialized program for first responders struggling with addiction and psychological problems like PTSD.

“First responders frequently see traumatizing things that are difficult to process. Some people are better at sharing their emotions than others, and we want to show them that it’s normal to feel uneasy about what you see and you can talk about it,” Edwards says.

First Responders Addiction Treatment at Morningside Recovery

At Morningside Recovery, first responders can relate to each other’s experiences and realize they no longer have to face their problems alone or in silence. In addition to first responders addiction treatment, we offer other specialized rehab programs, including:

• Rehab for men
• Rehab for women
• Couples counseling and treatment

Whether you participate in one or a combination of these programs, Morningside Recovery is the place you need for comprehensive addiction treatment. If you or a first responder in your life needs first responders addiction treatment, call us today at 855-631-2135. With a simple phone call, you can take the first step toward regaining a happy and healthy life as a first responder.