Hyper-vigilance Syndrome

Hyper-vigilance syndrome, common in first responders, describes the drastic swing between two phases, the on-duty and off-duty phases. Emergency services requires heightened alertness for prolonged periods of time. Hyper-vigilance syndrome develops from this prolonged alertness. Unless addressed proactively, it can result in a reaction that is the complete opposite when off-duty. A first responder can ‘rollercoaster’ between being extra alert when on-duty with quick thinking, feeling super alive and funny, to being lethargic, apathetic, detached, and angry when off-shift. Maintaining balance between shifts is difficult for many responders.