Associations between exposure to potentially psychologically traumatic events and mental ill health among New Zealand firefighters: A cross-sectional study

IF 4.3 2区医学 Q1 PSYCHIATRY

Comprehensive psychiatry Pub Date : 2025-03-29 DOI:10.1016/j.comppsych.2025.152595

Lisa Mackay , Jessica L. Campbell , Josh Darby , Kate Pendergast , Grant Schofield

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background

Fire and emergency services personnel face unique occupational hazards, including repeated exposure to potentially psychologically traumatic events (PPTEs), which can impact their mental health. Despite growing awareness, comprehensive data on the mental health of fire and emergency services personnel in New Zealand remains sparse.

Purpose

This study examined the prevalence of symptoms of mental health disorders, including PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and assessed the association between PPTE exposure, coping mechanisms, and mental ill health among New Zealand firefighters and commanders.

Methods

A comprehensive online survey using the Qualtrics platform was administered to fire and emergency personnel, assessing exposure to PPTEs and various mental health parameters. The survey utilized standard assessment tools including the PHQ-9, GAD-7, SPRINT, and AUDIT-C alongside measures of life satisfaction, emotional numbing and demographic questions.

Main findings

The prevalence of symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (24 %), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (13 %), and probable PTSD (13 %) among 1264 fire and emergency personnel are higher than those observed in the general population. High exposure to PPTEs was associated with higher odds of reporting moderate-to-severe symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and probable PTSD. Also of note were findings revealing a high prevalence of potentially hazardous drinking patterns (68 %).

Conclusions

Highlights a critical need for effective mental ill health prevention and support programs tailored to fire and emergency personnel, considering their high exposure to PPTEs and elevated risk of experiencing symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD

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来源期刊

Comprehensive psychiatry 医学-精神病学

CiteScore

12.50

自引率

1.40%

发文量

审稿时长

29 days

期刊介绍： "Comprehensive Psychiatry" is an open access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the field of psychiatry and mental health. Its primary mission is to share the latest advancements in knowledge to enhance patient care and deepen the understanding of mental illnesses. The journal is supported by a diverse team of international editors and peer reviewers, ensuring the publication of high-quality research with a strong focus on clinical relevance and the implications for psychopathology. "Comprehensive Psychiatry" encourages authors to present their research in an accessible manner, facilitating engagement with clinicians, policymakers, and the broader public. By embracing an open access policy, the journal aims to maximize the global impact of its content, making it readily available to a wide audience and fostering scientific collaboration and public awareness beyond the traditional academic community. This approach is designed to promote a more inclusive and informed dialogue on mental health, contributing to the overall progress in the field.