Mental health care utilization by first responders after Paris attacks

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Trauma Studies
• Public Health

Background:

• First responders (FRs) face high exposure to traumatic events, increasing their risk for mental health disorders.
• A significant gap exists in understanding mental health care (MHC) utilization among FRs with mental health conditions.
• Prior research indicates that FRs with mental health disorders often do not receive adequate treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors associated with receiving immediate support after a traumatic event.
• To determine factors linked to post-immediate support and engagement in mental health care (MHC).
• To analyze MHC utilization among FRs following the 2015 Paris terror attacks.

Main Methods:

• A web-based survey was administered 8-12 months post-event.
• The study included 663 first responders mobilized during the Paris terror attacks.
• Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with MHC utilization.

Main Results:

• Only 44 FRs sought MHC; 38% of those with PTSD, partial PTSD, or depression accessed care.
• Immediate and post-immediate support were associated with knowing someone who could help with psychological risks.
• MHC engagement correlated with prior MHC use, post-immediate support, and diagnoses of PTSD, partial PTSD, or depression.

Conclusions:

• Few FRs diagnosed with PTSD, partial PTSD, or depression sought MHC, highlighting a need for improved access.
• Social support networks may facilitate initial and ongoing mental health care engagement for FRs.
• Proactive mental health education and support systems are crucial for FRs before and after traumatic events.