On Talk of the Bay, Monday, May 16, 2022 Christine Barrington welcomes back Scotts Valley Mayor Donna Lind to explore how we can celebrate and honor the critical work of our firefighters through supporting greater awareness around the mental health challenges first responders face and advocating for policies to improve their access to treatment. As a retired Sergeant in the law enforcement services, Donna Lind brings a depth of understanding to the issues firefighters face. Statistics underscore the reality: Firefighters are three times as likely to die from suicide than in the line of duty, and they attempt suicide at twice the rate of the general populace. Rates of PTSD have been steadily increasing, while access to private specialized treatment is rare.
Join in to hear how Donna Lind and others are working to reduce the stigma around mental health assistance in the firefighting community, enabling these first responders to receive the support they require and deserve.
The Fallen Officer’s Foundation provides assistance to first responders who find themselves in a crisis or have unmet needs. You can contact them or donate at: fallenofficerfoundation.com
West Coast Trauma Center for First Responders provides retreats and care in wake of trauma experienced in the line of duty.
