Study looks at first-responder substance use during pandemic
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While frontline workers experienced increased burnout and mental health issues during the early years of the pandemic, many reported no significant concerns about substance use, according to a study by Florida Atlantic University.
Findings released Thursday, and cross-published in the International Journal of Drug Policy, showed that nearly 61% of 2,801 first responders surveyed nationwide said substance use was not a concern in 2020 and 2021, while 40% of respondents said they turned to drugs to relieve emotional discomfort.
Twenty-two percent of those surveyed said they were unable to cut down on substance use and an additional 7.2% reported neglecting job responsibilities due to increased substance use, according to the study.
“First responders represent a unique population as they have increased exposure to trauma and stress, which can be exacerbated by public health epidemics,” Kaila Witkowski, a senior author and assistant professor at FAU’s School of Public Administration, said in a statement.
Researchers said findings suggest that employers should implement strategies aimed at reducing work-related stress and burnout to improve personal resiliency, including “decompression spaces” intended to help workers reduce problematic substance use.
