The issue of suicide among first responders is not commonly talked about, but those with mental illness think it needs to become part of the job and training to look for warning signs.
The situations first responders are generally faced with are inherently difficult and stressful. They are typically the first to arrive on the scene of events involving injuries and loss of life. They often provide emotional as well as physical support to traumatized survivors. These duties often put first responders at risk for secondary or vicarious traumatization.