First Responders and PTSD: Insights from Dr. Tracy S. Hejmanowski
My call to arms, I guess, is to consider that if you can do it and have that courage to do it, it's not just about encouraging someone else to go, but walk the walk.
What happens when the heroes who save lives every day need saving themselves? In this powerful episode of 'Chase The Vase', host Brock Bevell sits down with Dr. Tracy S. Hejmanowski, a clinical psychologist with two decades of experience working with first responders, veterans, and their families. Dr.
Hejmanowski has seen it all, from the VA Medical Center to overseas deployments as a Navy psychologist, and she’s here to share her invaluable insights into the mental health challenges faced by those on the front lines. Dr. Hejmanowski dives into the unique struggles of first responders, such as PTSD and trauma, shedding light on how these issues can ripple through both their personal and professional lives.
She emphasizes the critical need for mental health providers to be approachable and non-judgmental, especially for a community that often feels stigmatized or hesitant to seek help. With practical tips for coping, like openly discussing mental health and embracing empathy, this episode is a treasure trove of advice for anyone in the first responder community or their loved ones. Through candid conversations and heartfelt stories, Brock and Dr.
Hejmanowski offer a message of hope and support, reminding first responders that they are not alone in their struggles. As Dr. Hejmanowski puts it, “If you can muster the courage to seek help, you’re not just helping yourself—you’re paving the way for others to do the same”. Tune in for an episode that’s not just informative but deeply moving, offering a lifeline to those who dedicate their lives to saving others.