Mental health difficulties in paramedics: A review of the literature

Abstract

BackgroundParamedics are frequently exposed to traumatic events as part of their role. The implications of this constant exposure have suggested that paramedics are at high risk of developing long-term mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, burnout, trauma, PTSD, and suicide.PurposeTo synthesise studies to examine factors that play a role in the development of mental health difficulties in ambulance personnel. As well as, establishing gaps within the literature for further research.Data SourcesFrom the first 77 published journals reviewed from Psycinfo, PsychArticles, CINAHL, Education Research Complete, ERIC and grey literature, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria for this review and were included in the present study.ResultsFindings of this review suggest that the mental health and wellbeing of paramedics are significant issues. In reviewing the research, it was found that several different factors may play a role in the development of mental health difficulties in ambulance personnel. Four main themes were determined, (1) occupational stressors, (2) negative attitude towards emotional expression, (3) peer and social support, and (4) preparing paramedics for mental health challenges.ConclusionsIt is paramount for further research to explore paramedic students’ mental health experiences, as well as a focus on research to investigate a UK paramedic population due to most of the literature focusing on an international population. Psychological support and early interventions should be made a priority for all ambulance workers, as a way of improving the quality of the working life of paramedics.