Rural Volunteer Emergency Personnel’s Perceptions of Stressors During the COVID-19

Emergency personnel are expected to handle all situations without affecting their psyche. Distinct differences exist between urban and rural EMS personnel, with rural personnel frequently needing more organizational resources or support to manage stress. With the onset of COVID-19 in December 2019, rural emergency personnel were placed in exhaustive specific situations not experienced previously within the United States. This study was conducted to focus on how they internalize their stressors. This generic qualitative study aimed to determine the perceptions of stressors experienced by rural volunteer emergency personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic. A qualitative survey was completed by 11 participants who provided their definition of stress, what they consider potential stressors in the line of duty, and how the effects of duty have affected their daily lives. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The common theme for all participants was realizing they live with their experiences daily. All participants expressed negative emotional states, including fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame, and diminished interests or participation in activities. PTSD is an effect of long-term exposure to trauma and the need for support services is necessary for those individuals affected by long-term stressors. The findings of this study have the potential for implications for positive social change for those in rural areas including recognition that there are limited resources and that treatment options must come without judgment and repercussions for needed services.