Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2025

Use of a Psychophysiological Script-driven Imagery Experiment to Study Trauma-related Dissociation in Borderline Personality Disorder
Published on: March 8, 2018
A Qualitative Investigation into the Trauma Exhibited by First Responders Impacted by the Opioid Epidemic
Thalia P Nicholson1, Erin C Blazer2, Aaron S Hymes3
1Department of Psychology, East Tennessee State University, 420 Rogers Stout-Hall, P.O. Box 70649, Johnson City, TN 37614 USA.
Abstract:
This qualitative study aimed to capture the lived experiences of first responders (FRs) combatting the opioid epidemic in an effort to better understand how the increase in opioids, opioid-related harm, and opioid-related death has affected the FR profession. FRs (N = 30) from Tennessee partook in semi-structured interviews investigating the impact of responding to opioid-related incidents. Using a phenomenological approach, three response themes emerged including (1) opioid epidemic burden on FR mental health, (2) variable availability and effectiveness of resources, and (3) identified roles of FRs in reducing the impact of the epidemic. The findings indicate that FRs are experiencing posttraumatic stress and secondary traumatic stress symptoms due to a shift in their duties, as well as repeated exposures to the adverse impacts of opioid use. This study finds a deficit in resources and support to combat the mental health repercussions FRs have experienced due to the epidemic. Given that FRs are often directly involved in preventing opioid-related deaths, ensuring that they are well resourced is an essential component of harm reduction and will ultimately augment care for individuals experiencing opioid-related harm.
More Related Videos
09:29Investigating Drivers of Antireward in Addiction Behavior with Anatomically Specific Single-Cell Gene Expression Methods
Published on: August 4, 2022
10:43Developing Neuroimaging Phenotypes of the Default Mode Network in PTSD: Integrating the Resting State, Working Memory, and Structural Connectivity
Published on: July 1, 2014
Related Concept Videos
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events,...
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Analgesia and Pain Management
Opioid Receptors: Overview
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners