Restoration workers who respond to large-scale disaster events — hurricanes, wildfires, floods — are experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and burnout at rates comparable to police officers and firefighters, according to a 2026 occupational health study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
The study, which surveyed 1,200 restoration technicians and project managers who responded to major disaster events between 2022 and 2025, found that 28 percent met the diagnostic criteria for PTSD, 41 percent reported symptoms of burnout, and 19 percent reported using alcohol or other substances to cope with work-related stress.
Researchers identified several factors that elevated mental health risk: prolonged deployment away from family, exposure to traumatized homeowners and communities, physically demanding work in hazardous conditions, and the emotional weight of working in homes where people have experienced significant loss.
The restoration industry has historically had limited mental health support infrastructure. Unlike fire departments and police agencies, which have established peer support programs and employee assistance resources, most restoration firms — particularly small and medium-sized operations — do not have formal mental health programs.
The Restoration Industry Association has responded to the study by developing a mental health resource guide for member firms, including guidance on establishing peer support programs, employee assistance program (EAP) options, and crisis intervention resources.
Industry leaders are calling for greater awareness of the mental health challenges facing restoration workers and for the development of industry-specific support resources.
