Signs And Symptoms of First Responder Substance Misuse

Posted on by armorupnow

There are many telltale signs that can suggest that a first responder is misusing medication, drugs and/or alcohol. Depending on the substance that is being misused, the amount of the given substance or substances that is being consumed, and the length of time an individual have been struggling with substance misuse can all affect the obviousness of a substance problem. If you are concerned that you or a loved one is battling substance misuse, it is a good idea to take note of the following signs and symptoms:

Behavioral symptoms:

  • Lethargy
  • Declined participation in things that were once enjoyed
  • Engaging in risky behaviors
  • Poor coordination
  • Increased conflict with others
  • Social withdrawal or isolation
  • Change in peer group
  • Unwarranted outbursts of varying emotions
  • Missing days of work
  • Inability to fulfill roles or responsibilities
  • Hyperactivity

 

Physical symptoms:

  • Headaches
  • Poor hygiene
  • Injection sites
  • Shakiness / tremors
  • Diarrhea
  • Weight loss / gain
  • Insomnia / hypersomnia
  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Slurred speech

 

Cognitive symptoms:

  • Impaired memory
  • Derealization
  • Poor decision-making
  • Hallucinations
  • Delusions
  • Inability to reason
  • Psychosis
  • Delayed thinking
  • Confusion
  • Poor concentration

 

Psychosocial symptoms:

  • Abrupt changes in mood
  • Agitation
  • Irritability
  • Depressed mood
  • Anxiety
  • Inability to experience pleasure
  • Changes in temperament

 

If you, someone you love or someone you know needs help, call:

Safe Call Now:  24 Hour Confidential Hotline:  206-459-3020

For more information on the First Responders program:  Click here

Or call Shannon Clairemont at 661-466-6352 or Vanessa Stapleton at 304-651-3008

 

Published by armorupnow

Sean Riley is the Founder and President of Safe Call Now, a confidential, comprehensive, 24-hour crisis referral service for public safety employees, all emergency services personnel and their family members nationwide. Safe Call Now was started in 2009 after legislation was passed guaranteeing confidentiality nationwide for all who call the Safe Call Now crisis line that is staffed by current and former first responders. Sean played baseball for San Diego State University and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration. He started his law enforcement career as a San Diego County Deputy Sheriff in 1987 and later relocated to Washington State in 1990. Sean spent over 16 years with the Kirkland Police Department. His many accomplishments include being a member of the International Homicide Investigator's Association, Homicide and Sexual Assault Detective, Interview and Interrogation Specialist, D.A.R.E. Officer, Gang Officer and Certified Training Officer. Riley is also credited with solving one of the first ever elder abuse homicide cases in the nation. Sean's prominent career in law enforcement ended in 2005 when he could no longer hide his "secret" behind the badge. Sean threw away his almost 20-year stellar police career due to alcohol and drug addiction and was headed towards suicide to become just another unknown statistic. In addition to attending college for substance abuse counseling, Sean worked as a supervisor at a local treatment center where he witnessed many public safety employees coming in and out of treatment. Riley decided to do something about it. From his own experience, he knew that first responders wanted to come forward to help, but due to the stigma attached, they would not. Admitting to a substance abuse or mental health problem is perceived as a sign of weakness and could result in the termination from a noble career. By creating a safe and confidential place to reach out for help, first responders are now coming forward in droves from around the nation to better their lives, better their families and better their careers. Recognized as a dynamic national keynote speaker, Sean travels throughout the country to share his inspirational story. Coupled with cutting edge, interactive training, Riley hits those once thought of as "taboo" or "controversial" topics head-on. "Safe Call Now provides education, healthy alternatives, resources and a complete continuum of care to save lives and put families back together. Through a collaborative effort, Safe Call Now has discovered when you provide an opportunity for an individual to get their life and their family back, you get one great employee back out serving the public." - Sean Riley, Founder/President