LA County Fire Captain Ed Monroe shares his candid, powerful insight into PTSI (Post-Traumatic Stress Injury), emphasizing why mental health must be treated as a physical injury and why help must be sought proactively. Drawing on 17 years of service, he discusses the critical role of peer support, the shock of a firefighter being shot, and the unique challenges and rewards of leading wildland inmate crews.
In this episode, you'll learn about:
PTSI vs. PTSD: Why "Injury" is a more accurate and helpful term than "Disorder."
The Inmate Crew Program: How this initiative gave men a mission and a path to turning their lives around.
Peer Support is Essential: Why first responders trust those within their circle and how LA County Fire is utilizing peer mentorship.
The Warrior's Code: Why the reluctance to ask for help is a dangerous mindset that must be overcome.
The Retirement Cliff: Why veterans and former first responders are most at risk after losing their daily peer support network.
The External Threat: The chilling reality of firefighters being targeted while responding to incidents.
The Fire Culture Shift: Why it's now safer and easier than ever to seek care without career reprisal.
