Sleepless Warriors: Sleep Disturbances, Recovery, and Resilience in First Responders

Sleep is critical for cognitive function, emotional regulation, and physical health, but for first responders, restorative sleep is often elusive. This session explores the complex interplay between occupational demands, undiagnosed or diagnosed mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)/concussion, and chronic sleep disturbances in EMS and other high-exposure professions. Symptoms of mTBI, such as headaches, cognitive fog, irritability, and emotional dysregulation can disrupt normal sleep patterns, making restorative rest difficult even when the workday ends. Participants will examine how cumulative sleep loss impacts first responders’ professional performance, decision-making, and safety, as well as its ripple effects on home life, relationships, and overall well-being. The session will highlight the reciprocal relationship between sleep disturbance and neurological symptoms, emphasizing how untreated or unrecognized mTBI can exacerbate fatigue and cognitive deficits over time. Practical strategies for improving sleep hygiene, recognizing red-flag symptoms of underlying injury, and fostering resilience both on- and off-duty will be discussed. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to support their own recovery, optimize alertness and performance, and enhance the overall health and resilience of their teams.