Posted: | April 16, 2019 10:27 AM |
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From: | Representative Brian Kirkland |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | First Responders Mental Health Awareness Day” in Pennsylvania |
Our first responders are constantly called to emergency scenes that are gruesome, which can lead to mental or emotional distress, along with trauma, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). An estimated 15 to 18 percent of police and 20 percent of firefighters experience PTSD. Many of these heroes do not seek mental health care because of the stigma attached to such care. First responders often feel that receiving treatment for PTSD or other disorders makes them seem weak and fear being subjected to ridicule, prejudice, discrimination and labeling. I believe it is important that we eliminate this stigmatization and encourage our first responders to reach out for care when they need it. In an effort to support our first responders, this resolution encourages the Commonwealth to continue to promote and provide information regarding mental health resources. Please join me in designating May 3, 2019, as “First Responders Mental Health Awareness Day” in Pennsylvania. |