First Responders and How To Avoid Drinking Off Duty…

By Safe Call Now Admin Staff

As a first responder, you put your life and well-being on the line day in and day out. A single week could include fighting the roaring flames of house or forest fires, protecting your community’s businesses and residents from criminals or trying to keep civilians alive after accidents or overdoses.

You see and experience a lot on the job, which can take a toll on your own physical, emotional and mental health. That’s why it feels like drinking together with your colleagues while you cheer on your favorite sports team is one of the few simple pleasures you have left at the end of a long week.

You deserve it after all, right?

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How Does PTSD Impact the First Responder in Addiction?

By Safe Call Now Admin Staff

Seven out 10 American adults have experienced trauma in some form or another in their lives. As many as 20% of those adults may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD can occur after a number of near-fatal events including combat experience, automotive accidents, sudden emotional loss, sexual assault and more. Even witnessing one of these events can be enough to develop PTSD. It’s natural to experience troubling memories for days, weeks or even a few months. However, if those intense negative feelings continue beyond that period, you could be suffering from PTSD.

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How Do Benzodiazepines Impact A First Responder?

By Safe Call Now Admin Staff

Prescription medications may not seem like much of a risk for first responders. After all, your doctor prescribed this treatment to help you with an issue. Benzodiazepines like Xanax, Valium, Ativan, Klonopin and others can provide relief from anxiety, insomnia, social anxiety disorders and even alcohol withdrawals.

However, even following your doctor’s orders carefully can put you at risk for dependence or addiction. Let’s take a look at some of the effects benzodiazepines can have on the body.

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