John Rose of Oak Bluffs on Firefighters Struggling PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly known as PTSD, is a familiar term for many. John Rose of Oak Bluffs notes that while people often possess a basic understanding of the condition, it is all too common for these examples to come from individuals who haven’t experienced it firsthand. The perspective drastically shifts when one gains insight into PTSD through the eyes and minds of those directly affected by it.

For firefighters dealing with PTSD, some days are really tough, and others are a bit easier. Unfortunately, the better days become pretty rare once PTSD shows up, and that’s why it’s crucial for them to have ongoing therapy and treatment.

John Rose of Oak Bluffs understands firefighters and has had to learn how to know if they have PTSD.

Triggers, Behaviors, and Mood Swings

Symptoms of PTSD related to this may include increased anger or aggression, hypervigilance, irritability, insomnia, and hypersensitivity.

It’s common for those with PTSD to undergo an array of other mental health issues along with their disorders. According to John Rose of Oak Bluffs, these can include anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. A few symptoms of these may consist of feelings of detachment and guilt, negative mood, distorted beliefs about oneself, others, and the world, and lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities.

Zoning Out

Husbands and wives of firefighters with PTSD mention that they observe their spouses experiencing a stupor when returning home from work. They tune out the rest of the world by becoming engrossed in the TV or any other electronic gadget. It is important to note that if they are unable to come out of this perceived “vortex” to answer questions or even turn their attention to something else, it may be worth looking into.

Memories and Behaviors

People with PTSD often relive traumatic events, and they do so in vivid memories. These memories can manifest as flashbacks or nightmares.

It’s common for firefighters with PTSD to avoid reminders and feelings that are associated with their trauma. Examples of these could be certain activities, places, or people. This behavior, however, can disrupt the person’s normal daily routine.

Stress and a Sense of Regret

People without PTSD usually start a day like an empty glass that fills up with different kinds of stressors as the day wears on. Someone with PTSD will start a day with feelings of stress, according to John Rose of Oak Bluffs.

People struggling with PTSD are often known to talk about things they used to do or things that they enjoyed but don’t do anymore. To help them, friends and loved ones can try to keep track of how much they talk about these things. If it is a lot, creating situations where they can do these things again may help a great deal.

John Rose of Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard, excelled as a multi-sport athlete in high school, notably leading the golf team as captain. He now serves as the Chief of the Oak Bluffs Fire Department, with certifications including Fire Prevention Officer and Fire Officer 1. For related posts, subscribe to this page.