Journal of Sleep Disorders & Therapy
Open Access

Sleep Deprivation in First Responders-How Much of a Contributing Factor to Reported Suicide Rates.?

Kathy Sexton-Radek Ph.D

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Introduction

Suicide rates are estimated to be 30,000 deaths per year in the United States. Recent news stations and periodicals have been coveringreporting of increased deaths by suicides of first responders in a 2016 Center for Disease Control report [1]. The first responder group offirefighters, paramedics and police officers now represents a high riskgroup. Within this population of suicide deaths, features of more malesand use of firearms comprises the highest levels of suicides. The identified risk factors associated with first responders are marital discord, trauma, increased stress and role diffusion with the sudden fame associated with event they responded to. Additional triggers to first responders have, to date, been described as stress and loss of health. Sleep deprivation has been identified as a significant triggerfactor linked to depression and suicide [2]. However, the specifics ofthe extent and history of the sleep deprivation as well as other factorssuch as mood levels are not provided in the news reporting’s.

Disturbing findings of increased suicide rates amongst firstresponders has to be addressed. A recent literature review revealednumerous training protocols, references to WHO Preventing Suicidestudy and general information. However, we as Sleep Specialists, needto consider this circumstance and determine how sleep research andmedicine can be of service. Early detection of sleep deprivationoutcomes in behaviors such as poor concentration and attention, errors in work performance, irritability and mood changes may behelpful. Screening tests for vigilance, attention and, at minimumreporting of sleep quality may help to identify sleep deprivation andthe extent of its impact on the responder’s behavior. Ideally, a healthcare appointment with a Sleep Specialist would provide a measuredassessment of the sleep deprivation and other factors such as moodand stress level that may be influencing the responder’s behavior.

What is clear from the news of the CDC report, is that interventionis needed both in terms of clinical care/assessment and for researchinvestigations of sleep deprivation in first responders. The seriousfindings from the CDC study indicate immediate action on the part ofSleep specialists to provide clinical care/assessment and researchinvestigations of sleep deprivation and first responders. Our publichealth colleagues have identified a serious outcome and our practiceand research technology that has been so effective with other sleepmedicine is needed. The setup of early intervention and prevention ofsleep deprivation in first responders by Sleep Specialist is essential tomore fully addressing this serious concern.

 

References

1. 1.Farina A (2018) What can CDC data tell us about First Responder suicide?
2. 2.Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance

References

1. 1.Farina A (2018) What can CDC data tell us about First Responder suicide?