impact of trauma on Rescue 1122 workers

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to assess the occurrence and severity level of Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms [PTSS] in 165 men who are Rescue 1122 workers of Lahore. A list of Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and areas of life affected from Foa's PDS scale [1995] was given to the respondents. Factor analysis of the PTSD symptoms revealed three factors, namely, Re-experiencing symptoms, Heightened Arousa,Avoidance. The results showed that about 60% of Rescue 1122 workers have experienced the classical and well known Posttraumatic Stress symptoms. The severity of symptoms ranged from [moderate] to [severe] level in 45% of the workers. Almost 80% of the participants feel that their life has been largely affected by the nature of job. The continual stress if left unchecked can have cumulative effect on self-esteem, confidence level and finally eroding the ability to deal with crises efficiently. Results are discussed in the context of remedial and counseling services for personnel working in the emergency services