Every day, police officers, paramedics, doctors, firefighters, and other responders put their lives on the line to preserve the lives of others. While first responders receive large amounts of praise and deep respect, it comes at a high price. The constant exposure to traumatic events often pushes first responders to use substances as a way to cope with their feelings. If substance use is left unchecked, first responders can become dependent and even addicted to drugs and alcohol. For those who find recovery through drug treatment, Los Angeles sober living for first responders provides the additional support and motivation needed to stay sober for the long term.
If you live in the Los Angeles area and are in need of first responders in Los Angeles sober living, call the Last House today. We provide a top-tier network of sober living houses that give you the support you need to succeed in recovery. Call us today and find lasting sobriety at our Los Angeles sober living for men.
Los Angeles Sober Life
The Last House Sober Living has been helping men recover for over 10 years. Our Los Angeles structured sober living homes offer accountability and a path to lasting recovery.
Why Are First Responders Vulnerable to Addiction?
Before we talk about why Los Angeles sober living for first responders is important for long-term recovery, we need to discuss why these critical people are so vulnerable to addiction. The first and most obvious answer is the cumulative exposure to stress and traumatic situations first responders face on a daily basis. Every day, first responders deal with accidents, fires, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other major events. The constant physical and emotional wear and tear associated with these situations impact the overall mental health and can cause the following conditions:
- Irritability
- Sleep problems
- Physical aches and pains
- Hypervigilance
- Increased headaches
- Anxiety
The above conditions are often grouped together in a condition known as S-PTSD (sub-threshold posttraumatic stress disorder). If untreated, first responders can go on to develop PTSD.
Another major factor that makes first responders vulnerable to addiction is the continuing stigma surrounding mental illness. While many employers offer EAP programs and other quality resources to help with employees’ mental health, many are hesitant to get help. Many feel that asking for help is a sign of weakness. As a result, first responders are more likely to use drugs and alcohol to cope with their emotions. While substances provide some relief, it is a short-term solution at best. If the root causes of mental fatigue are not addressed, they will continue using substances more significantly. Over time, they may develop an addiction to substances co-occurring with their mental issues.
Those first responders in recovery must have resources such as sober living first responders in LA. The Last House provides first responders with evidence-based sober living anchored by the support of experienced staff and fellow residents who share in their struggles to stay clean. Call us today to learn more about our first responders in LA sober living.
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How Common is Addiction and Mental Illness in First Responders?
Given the high risk and stress associated with being a first responder, the prevalence of substance abuse and mental illness is higher than average. For example, the National Survey of Drug Use and Health stated that 29% of firefighters abuse alcohol, and nearly 10% may be currently misusing prescription medications. Another study showed that among urban police officers, 11% of male officers and 16% of female officers reported “at-risk” alcohol use levels.
Prevalence Among Current Firefighters
- Suicidal ideation: 46.8%
- Suicide plans: 19.2%
- Suicide attempts: 15.5%
From the same study, the following data regarding mental illness among EMS workers found the following:
- 28% of EMS workers felt like life was not worth living
- 10.4% of EMS workers experienced serious suicidal ideation
- 3.1% of EMS workers had attempted suicide in the past
Those first responders who are new in recovery are especially vulnerable to the triggers found in their occupation. Undergoing continued treatment at a first responders sober living in Los Angeles can make all the difference in helping people stay on the path of recovery. If you are in the greater Los Angeles area, call the Last House today for sober living programs that are effective and proven to work.
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The Need for Los Angeles Sober Living for First Responders
No matter how long a first responder has been clean and sober, having a solid support network is crucial. Sober living first responders in LA is an invaluable program that helps these important people stay on track. As with anyone in recovery, first responders often feel that no one understands their struggles in daily life. Los Angeles sober living for first responders features a tremendous support network of professionals and peers who have experienced similar struggles in their own recovery.
The goal of first responders LA sober living is to give people the tools they need to find long-term recovery. This includes continued counseling, 12-step meetings, life and coping skills training, and relapse prevention programs, for example. Since peer interaction and support is important in sustaining sobriety, Los Angeles sober living for first responders offers group outings and activities, recreation programs, and other essential services.
Overall, first responders LA sober living provides the following:
- Develop and maintain a unified community committed to living a life free of substances
- Establish a solid foundation in recovery and change behaviors to sustain recovery
- Encourage self-sufficiency, responsibility, and continued education
- Encourage active participation in order to attain the sense of community
Are you a recovering first responder looking to strengthen your sobriety? The Last House features proven sober living programs mixing experienced clinical services, experienced treatment staff, and recovering peers who want to see you thrive and succeed! Call us now to learn more about our top-tier Los Angeles sober living for first responders.
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The Last House: Proven Sober Living Programs for First Responders
For many new in recovery, sober living is an excellent aftercare option after the completion of an intensive treatment program. While sober living has tremendous benefits, you may need to find out which programs have the necessary services and support. Fortunately, the Last House can help you achieve your recovery goals. Our sober living homes are structured to make you an active participant in your recovery. We aren’t simply a place to lay your head; instead, The Last House provides the tools you need to empower and transform your life.
Make the commitment to improve your life, and call the Last House toll-free right now. Make today the day you start living your best life with our structured sober living for men in Los Angeles.