PTSD Awareness Month • 2026

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month is observed annually in June.

PTSD in First Responders

It is no secret that an occupation within EMS results in a high-stress work environment. In addition to general job-related stressors; poor sleep schedules, and repeated exposure to hazards and tragedy all contribute to the association between EMS personnel and the occurrence mental illness. Foundationally, the greater EMS community is largely driven on pride and the need to maintain a strong and unphased demeanor. 

This desire to possess such a resilient appearance stems from fear of being perceived as weak or incapable providers by their colleagues and superiors. Collectively, these factors create an environment in which the involved personnel are at an increased risk for developing mental illnesses yet have the tendency to not act on their deteriorating health.

The long-waged war between EMS providers and dismissal of their own mental health needs is grim in nature. In the United States, death by suicide is a leading cause of premature deaths of EMS personnel; second only to death by motorized vehicles during responses occurring on roadways.3 As alarming as this single statistic is, it is not a new finding; it has been relevant for decades. 

Yet, the EMS community has continued to maintain the same trajectory regarding this subject matter with little to no substantial improvements visible. Until this cohort begins acting upon this daunting reality, the community will continue to fall victim to tragic demise at the hands of mental illness.