It is common knowledge that many veterans experience post-traumatic stress disorder when they return from combat. A lesser-known fact is that first responders can experience PTSD as well. The scenes that firefighters, police officers and paramedics witness every day can cause psychological strain. Camp Hope, a Houston-based organization that provides temporary housing for veterans as they seek counseling for PTSD, is extending its services to include first responders.
Many first responders will not seek counseling for their struggles for fear of appearing weak to their co-workers. The PTSD Foundation of America, the organization that sponsors Camp Hope, is hoping to change that misconception by organizing peer-to-peer counseling off city property. This provides a safe, judgment-free zone for first responders to talk about their issues with someone who has been in their shoes.
David Maulsby, the executive director of the PTSD Foundation of America, told KHOU news, "What works beautifully in the veteran side is peer-to-peer. So it's one veteran who's been there, has now gotten some help and can help the next guy come home. That same concept will work as well within first responders."
The peer counseling sessions are held biweekly and provide first responders with the opportunity to help one another through the difficulties of the job.