First responders run toward danger while others run away. Firefighters, paramedics, police officers, and emergency workers face life-and-death situations regularly.

Over time, that constant exposure to trauma takes a serious toll. Many first responders quietly struggle with what they’ve seen and experienced on the job.

To cope, some turn to substances like alcohol or prescription medications. This is a predictable response to an overwhelming amount of pain. Learning why trauma and addiction so often go hand in hand for first responders is the first step toward healing.