Acute stress and early signs of PTSD are common in firefighters and other first responders − here’s what to watch out for

In this acute phase, as first responders are working the fires, although it’s incredibly stressful, they are trained to put their heads down and push through really difficult events. That doesn’t mean they won’t be affected by it, but in the immediate phase you might not see a lot of symptoms. But that doesn’t mean they might not then go on to develop symptoms, such as feelings of sadness, irritability or persistent sleep disturbances. Over the longer term, some may develop post-traumatic stress disorder. So, it’s important that people remain vigilant to their mental health and that of others around them. Above: Firefighters in the Altadena area of Los Angeles County try to stop the spread of the Eaton fire.