PTSD Support for Firefighters

First Responders are just that – the first to respond in an emergency. As such, they are exposed to traumas that far exceed what an average person encounters. Firefighters shoulder a tremendous burden in providing emergency medical services to the public, often at great risk to themselves. Paramedics especially see the worst of the worst, and have the responsibility of providing high level medical care while chaos surrounds them.

One of the brothers in our fire family, Josh Barnum, has suffered a break as a result of repeated exposures to extraordinarily tragic incidents, resulting in PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder.) This diagnosis required him to be admitted for in-patient treatment on December 24, 2018. Josh is married with two small children, so having this occur at Christmas has been especially hard on his family.

Josh has been admitted to the IAFF Center for Excellence to receive comprehensive culturally competent care to treat his condition, with the goal to return him to full duty as a Fire Engineer/Paramedic. The program is 45 days long, and will cost approximately $45,000. Since Josh lives in Arizona and the Center is in Maryland, it is uncertain whether his insurance will cover the claim as in-network. His Union brothers have stepped up and covered the expense of the flight to Maryland, and he has a small amount of savings to assist with the cost, but he is looking at his share of the expense to be approximately $20,000, even if insurance accepts the claim.

Our goal is to raise $20,000 to cover the direct treatment costs to Josh and his family. Any amount will help, and will be greatly appreciated. If funds are raised that exceed Josh’s direct costs related to this treatment, then the balance will be used as seed money to start Josh’s Fund, to assist other first responders in our community who may be facing this issue in the future. Ben Roche, IAFF Local 3066 Treasurer, has been tasked with managing the Fund and these donations. 

Too often these heroes are left to fend for themselves. Treatment that meets their precise needs is difficult to find, especially in smaller communities. Most counselors and EAP programs are not able to adequately address the specific traumas encountered by first responders. Having some funds available will hopefully encourage someone to ask for help and seek treatment without the financial strain holding them back.

Firefighter PTSD rates are five times that of civilians, and last year twice as many first responders committed suicide than were killed in the line of duty. PTSD from work-related exposures is a leading cause of depression and suicidal thoughts in firefighters.  Think about those statistics. We never want to lose another firefighter to suicide because they don’t think they can afford the treatment. Please help if you can, and share with your friends and colleagues. On behalf of Josh and his family, thank you for caring about those who care for you.