THE HIDDEN COST OF BEING A FIRST RESPONDER

Police officers, paramedics and firefighters spend their working lives running towards emergencies. But for many first responders, the hardest part begins after they leave the scene.

Research shows one in three Australian first responders experiences high or very high psychological distress linked to trauma on the job, highlighting the often unseen mental health burden carried by those who protect the community."

Demand on emergency services continues to rise, with new figures revealing more than 14 million Triple Zero (000) calls were made across the country in 2025.

Today is Thank a First Responder Day, and mental health advocates are calling for greater recognition of the long-term impact frontline emergency work can have not only on police, paramedics and firefighters, but also on their families.

HIDDEN COST OF RESPONDING TO CRISIS

From natural disasters and violent incidents to medical emergencies and extreme weather events, first responders are routinely exposed to traumatic situations that most Australians will never encounter.

According to research cited by Fortem Australia, one in three first responders experiences high or very high levels of psychological distress linked to workplace trauma, significantly higher than the broader population.

More than half report experiencing a traumatic event that has had a profound impact on their lives.

Fortem Australia chief executive Mick Willing APM said the public often sees the immediate emergency but not the longer-term consequences.

“First responders don't just attend emergencies; they absorb them,” Mr Willing said.

“Whether it's police arriving first at a violent incident, paramedics treating life-threatening injuries, or firefighters responding to disasters, they are stepping into the rawest moments most people will never witness.

“These aren't one-off experiences. It's the cumulative exposure to trauma, shift after shift, that takes a real toll.”

THE IMPACT EXTENDS BEYOND THE WORKPLACE

Mental health experts say the effects of repeated exposure to trauma do not necessarily end when a shift finishes.

Instead, the impact can follow first responders home, affecting relationships, family life and overall wellbeing.

“While the public focuses on the immediate danger or devastation, what's often overlooked is that the psychological impact doesn't end when the shift does,” Mr Willing said.

“It can stay with our people and their families for months or even years, often showing up as spillover stress at home or vicarious trauma experienced by those closest to them.”

SUPPORT PROGRAMS SHOW PROMISING RESULTS

New evaluation findings from Gallipoli Medical Research suggest targeted mental health and wellbeing programs can make a significant difference.

According to the research, 89 per cent of participants in Fortem Australia's programs reported improved health and wellbeing, while 93 per cent said they gained a greater understanding of their mental health.

Since 2019, more than 25,300 people have accessed the organisation's services, including more than 10,200 psychological support sessions for first responders and their families.

“The findings from Gallipoli Medical Research provide clear, evidence-based proof that early intervention and connection-based support can significantly improve outcomes,” Mr Willing said.

“This isn't just about feeling better in the moment; it's about building long-term resilience and reducing the lasting impact of trauma.”

FORMER FIRST RESPONDERS TO RECEIVE MORE SUPPORT

Recognising that trauma can continue long after active service ends, Fortem Australia is expanding its support programs to include former first responders who have left the profession within the past 10 years.

The move comes amid growing recognition that many emergency service workers continue to deal with the effects of traumatic experiences long after they leave the frontline.

“That's why we want to emphasise the importance of year-round support,” Mr Willing said.

“Critical incidents happen 365 days a year; therefore, so must the support. Without it, the impact of trauma can build over time, especially if left untreated.”

TURNING GRATITUDE INTO ACTION

Thank a First Responder Day, held annually on June 10, aims to recognise the contribution emergency service workers make to communities across Australia.

This year, organisers are encouraging Australians to go beyond simply saying thank you and consider practical ways to support first responders and their families.

“Saying thank you is powerful, but it's just the beginning,” Mr Willing said.

“We're asking Australians to turn that gratitude into action, whether that's leaving a message, shouting a coffee, supporting a local initiative or donating to vital programs.”

As demand on emergency services continues to grow, advocates say recognising the mental health challenges faced by first responders is becoming increasingly important.

“If we want first responders to continue showing up for us, we need to show up for them too,” Mr Willing said.