CRITICAL CONVERSATIONS: FIRST RESPONDER MENTAL HEALTH SERIES EPISODE #1 - with guests: Paul Barnes
This time of year is difficult for many people, including firefighters, especially during a pandemic. Like most emergency responders, firefighters are expected to be calm, level-headed and able to face even the most challenging situations with courage. They have long been expected to contain their emotions and approach their jobs with logic and reason, with the understanding that only those who have the ability to successfully manage the stress and emotional aspects of the job are cut out for success.

As a result, many firefighters have suppressed their feelings, with devastating consequences to their mental health. Research indicates that a large number have experienced mental health issues such as PTSD, anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. For example, one study of 7,000 firefighters found that 65% of the respondents struggle with memories of difficult calls, while 59% have had family or relationship problems as a result of their jobs. Substance abuse issues were experienced by 27%, while 19% have had thoughts of suicide.

In this episode we hear from special guest, Paul Barnes, to talk about mental health. Paul has been involved in the fire service since 1978. He joined the Air Force in 1980-86 as a Security Police. He was past Assistance Chief in Montville Fire Company, past Deputy Chief of Gardner Lake Fire Company and was a career firefighter in Montville from 1996-2016. He continues to be the Deputy Fire Marshal for Montville since 2016. He was diagnosed with PTSD in the year 2000, and will be bringing this important subject to our discussion platform this upcoming week. Please join us, and share with your colleagues and friends.


National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 800-273-TALK (8255) and press 1 or text to 838255

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