LAREDO, TX. (KGNS) – According to the InstitutesofHealth.org, more than 80 percent of first responders experience trauma while on the job and roughly one in three of them develop PTSD.
In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Laredo Fire and Police Department are reminding our local heroes about the importance of managing stress and anxiety.
The job of a firefighter and or police officer can come with the burden of being exposed to deadly crashes, house fires, shootings, and other traumatic events.
While mental health is important in all jobs, Laredo Fire Department Captain Yosh Wong said these types of scenarios can have a heavy impact on person’s well-being.
“The worst experience is loss; obviously, you lose one of your crew members, if you lose a family member, you see someone of a very young age, somebody that reminds you of a family member, those things can be very hard to deal with,” said Captain Wong. “I’ve been to several calls that have high emotional impact, especially with young babies and young children, nobody wants to see that. It can be very emotionally draining.”
Officials say it’s important to have healthy outlets outside of work that allow firefighters and officers to release their anxiety such as exercising or communicating with a family member.
Here in Laredo, both the fire and police department have access to a 24-hour psychological professional in case an official is experiencing a mental health emergency.
Laredo Police say that if you are experiencing a mental health crisis, you should never be afraid to reach out for help.
If you are in need of help call 988 lifeline.
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