MHNR Network, LLC
Mental Health News Radio
One Man's Journey Through Trauma with Chris Fields
One Man's Journey Through Trauma with Chris Fields
One Man's Journey Through Trauma with Chris Fields
Thursday 19th March 2020
Join Chris Fields as he shares his journey of overcoming trauma from the Oklahoma City bombing and his mental health advocacy for first responders.
47 minutes
hopeful
challenging
informative
vulnerable
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Episode Overview
- Chris Fields' career and pivotal moments as a firefighter.
- Impact of the Oklahoma City bombing on mental health.
- Challenges in seeking help for PTSD.
- Importance of support networks for first responders.
- Chris's ongoing advocacy work for mental health.
"If it could save one life, it's well worth it."
In this enlightening episode of Mental Health News Radio, host Kristin Sunanta-Walker and co-host Barry Toone engage in a deep conversation with Chris Fields, a retired Major from the Oklahoma City Fire Department, about his personal journey through trauma and recovery. Chris, who served for over 31 years, is most notably recognized for his involvement in the aftermath of the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, where a poignant photograph captured him cradling a young victim.
This tragic event became a catalyst for Chris's struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a condition that he candidly shares about in this episode. Chris discusses the challenges he faced in the aftermath of the bombing, particularly the emotional toll that comes with being in a profession that constantly deals with life-and-death situations.
He highlights the difficulty many first responders face in acknowledging and seeking help for mental health issues, often due to pride and a focus on maintaining a strong legacy within the department. Chris emphasizes the importance of having a robust support network and the role it plays in the healing process, sharing his own experiences with peer counseling and treatment facilities.
In addition to recounting his personal experiences, Chris talks about his involvement with the nonprofit organization Healthy Hire Healthy Retire, where he helps support other first responders in need of mental health treatment. The organization assists with financial burdens such as airfare and insurance co-pays, ensuring that those who serve their communities can access the care they need.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the broader implications of Chris's story, considering how mental health can be openly discussed and treated with the same importance as physical health. Through his advocacy and willingness to share his story, Chris Fields inspires hope and change for first responders and their families. As the episode closes, Kristin and Barry express their gratitude for Chris's openness, acknowledging the potential impact of his story on changing lives and promoting mental health awareness.