PTSD: The Shadow Side of the Firefighting Community

In honor of International Firefighter Day (5/4/2017), firefighters Charlie Heflin and Tim Grutzius will present a synopsis on the day in the life of a firefighter, what he or she is exposed to, and how this may or may not affect their psyche. The forum will then discuss why it is that so many in the firefighting community are reluctant to seek help with unresolved behavioral health issues.

What is it like to be a firefighter in today's society?
Why do you think so many firefighters/first responders are reluctant to come out of the shadows and seek help with unresolved behavioral health issues?
If an individual carries a significant history (i.e. came from an abusive home, alcoholic family. or one with a history of mental illness) with them to the fire service, what effect ( if any) can this have or his/her psyche once exposed to the rigors of this occupation?
What resources are available to ease the psycho-emotional burden for this community?
Why is peer support so effective in opening an honest dialogue about behavioral health?

PTSD: The Shadow Side of the Firefighting Community

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