A group of first responders are travelling the country, in the hopes of raising awareness of post traumatic stress disorder.
Executive Director for the Tema Conter Memorial Trust Vince Savoia says they are seeing more and more PTSD deaths, “Since our last tour in 2014, we have recorded the death of 82 first responders by suicide.”
Savoia says he suffered from PTSD starting in the 80’s, but at first he didn’t recognize the symptoms. He says it took 12 years before he got a full diagnosis, “Years ago, it was assumed that PTSD only affected members of the military who saw combat. But things have evolved, and it is now recognized in first responders as well.”
He says, “Normally, the spouse or children first start to notice the change in behaviour in the first responder, who is dealing with PTSD, rather than the first responder themselves.”
Their tour will come to Moncton on Friday afternoon and is being held at Casino NB. For more details, you can fclick HERE
