A study has found that almost one in three (30 percent) female firefighters indicated that they had considered or attempted suicide compared to one in seven (15 percent) male firefighters. Contributor Professor Consuelo Arbona.

Being single increased the risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts in both genders, previous research has indicated that having a life partner may be a protective factor for suicide.

The research also found that PTSD symptoms were more common among female firefighters, with one in five (20 percent) female firefighters indicating that they had experienced such symptoms, compared to one in eight (12 percent) male firefighters.  Women who had been in the career for between 10-20 years were found to be at a higher risk of developing PTSD symptoms than those who were in the first 10 years of service.

The study also found that approximately one third of both male (31 percent) and female (32 percent) firefighters screened positive for alcohol problems.

The study assessed 2,639 firefighters, 75 women and 2,564 men in a large urban fire department.  The participants filled in anonymous questionnaires indicating if they had experienced symptoms of depression, general stress, PTSD, problem behaviours associated with alcohol consumption and if they had considered or attempted suicide.

Firefighters are exposed to emotionally charged and hazardous situations, there is a threat that the work they do could cause serious injuries, disfigurement or death.  The study authors feel that these factors leave firefighters vulnerable to developing post-traumatic stress disorder and experiencing suicidal thoughts.

The study authors have highlighted that female firefighters are experiencing a number of challenges in the industry and have called on screening and intervention programmes to be specifically aimed at the increased risk factors which differ between male and female firefighters.

Study author, Professor Consuelo Arbona said: “In addition to the stressors associated with the work of first-responders, women firefighters are likely to experience challenges associated with being female in a male oriented work environment. Gender discrimination and harassment are also likely to increase a woman’s risk for traumatic stress and suicidal ideation. Therefore, screening and interventions need to consider the specific occupational and psychological needs of female firefighters.”

This is the first study to examine the predictors of post traumatic symptoms in female firefighters and is one of only a few studies assessing the unique experiences and mental health needs of female firefighters.

A firefighter’s role is varied, they will be involved with fighting fires as well as providing emergency medical services and responding to critical events.  Critical events can include dangerous rescue operations, natural disasters and the management of hazardous materials.