Paramedics do so much more than save lives. They make a lasting difference in their communities and the healthcare systems they’re involved with. Whether delivering babies, treating burns, or keeping patients calm while in transit—paramedics love what they do, and it shows.
Join us in honoring these brave and selfless heroes on July 8, International Paramedics Day.
What Is International Paramedics Day?
International Paramedics Day was an initiative launched by the College of Paramedics in the United Kingdom in 2022. It gained international support from paramedics, first responders, and EMT organizations. This special day honors paramedics’ important role in their communities and healthcare. It is globally recognized on July 8 annually.
Every year, International Paramedic Day follows a theme. This year’s theme is “the difference we make,” which draws awareness to paramedics’ impact on patient outcomes in the communities they serve.
The most important aspects of International Paramedics Day include:
- Raising awareness about the scope of work that paramedics do daily.
- Highlighting the importance of mental healthcare for first responders, namely paramedics.
- Drawing attention to their contributions to healthcare and the greater community.
- Publicly recognizing the importance of paramedics.
Although paramedics are always appreciated, July 8 provides a special opportunity to boost their morale and give a sense of pride in what they do. This makes a significant difference to their mental health, which is often challenged due to repeated exposure to trauma.
The Role of Paramedics
Paramedics serve as a vital link between community members and local healthcare systems. They ensure people in emergent situations receive the care and support they need onsite before arriving at a medical facility. As such, their role is vast and requires a keen eye for detail, critical thinking, and rapid response.
Some of the many responsibilities that paramedics have include:
- Responding to emergencies: Paramedics are often called to life-threatening emergencies, such as car accidents, heart attacks, or childbirths. They also provide medical services during natural disasters or national emergencies.
- Stabilizing critical patients: Paramedics rapidly assess and stabilize patients before taking them to medical facilities, which may involve administering medications, oxygen, fluids, or CPR, significantly improving the chances of survival in life-threatening medical emergencies.
- Performing patient assessments: Paramedics are trained to take vitals, gather patients’ medical histories, assess symptoms, and check for injuries on-site and in transit.
- Providing transportation: Paramedics provide transportation to and between emergency facilities. They’re also on call to transport seriously injured or critically ill patients to their places of residence.
In addition to the above responsibilities, some paramedics teach first aid to students and other members of the community. They may also speak at assemblies about staying safe during natural disasters or mass casualty events.
Challenges and Resilience
Due to the traumatic nature of their job as first responders, paramedics are at significantly higher risk of developing serious mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety disorders. To cope, some paramedics use unhealthy vices like drinking alcohol or using drugs. Unfortunately, this also places them at a higher risk of developing a substance use disorder and addiction.
Although these conditions affect how they live and work, paramedics may be reluctant to ask for help due to stigmas within the profession or fear of losing their jobs. Programs like Help for Our Heroes were designed with these challenges in mind.
What Is Help for Our Heroes?
Help for Our Heroes was developed by veterans and 1st responders familiar with the traumas and challenges individuals face in these fields. It is a judgment-free zone where paramedics can speak about the issues that bother them or receive treatment and develop healthier coping skills moving forward. Attendees participate in experiential therapies such as equine and music therapy, one-on-one counseling, and peer support groups.
Ways to Support Our Paramedics
If you’re looking for ways to support your local paramedics, consider the following ideas:
- Thank them for their service.
- On July 8, share a story online about a paramedic who played a role in your health and safety, and tag your local news station.
- Post positive stories about paramedics on your social media pages and encourage others to share them.
- Donate to charities that provide support to paramedics.
- Take your family to visit a local ambulance depot and bring cards or small tokens of appreciation to the paramedics directly.
Remember, appreciation goes a long way in positively impacting paramedics in your community.
Conclusion
International Paramedics Day is a day to celebrate, learn, and appreciate paramedics. However, it’s also a time to raise awareness about the importance of mental health for paramedics and EMTs.
If you or someone you know works as a paramedic and struggles with persistent anxiety, depression, or substance abuse, consider reaching out to Transformations Treatment Centers to learn more about how Help for Our Heroes can offer support.
Our Accreditations
