A qualitative investigation of the occupational perceptions of firefighters with or without post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms

This qualitative study aims to examine the relationships between post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and the perceptions of Turkish firefighters, categorized by lower and higher degrees of PTSS, regarding work and family life, social interactions, and professional circumstances. Eleven firefighters participated in the interviews. The data was analyzed using a thematic approach. The high-PTSS group displayed symptoms such as re-experiencing, avoidance, and hyperarousal, which impeded their daily functioning and occupational performance. The low-PTSS group recognized these symptoms as a natural component of their occupation. Both groups reported that administrative inefficiency made them feel less positive about their careers. Both groups emphasized the protective role of personal protective equipment during emergency situations; although those with higher PTSS stressed psychological protection more than the other group. The high-PTSS group required comparatively greater social support, whereas both groups utilized the psychological assistance offered by their institutions. The recommendations include broader mental health intervention programs for firefighters that focus on improving family and social support, formulating a more inclusive administrative strategy for fire departments, promoting the utilization of personal protective equipment for both groups, and providing mental health intervention programs along with enhancement of collaborative leadership within the fire department.