BHAP - Pleasure Ridge Park Fire Protection District, Louisville Kentucky

• Behavioral Health Access Program •

Extinguish the Stigma!

Seeking help is not a weakness, it is a strength!

Firefighter/Paramedic/EMTs witness trauma on a regular
basis due to the nature of the profession. These repeated incidents can lead to mental health conditions immediately or over a period.

77% have lingering or unresolved emotional issues from their service.
95% have experienced critical stress on the job.
27% said that critical stress has led to substance abuse.
20% meet criteria for PTSD.
19% have had thoughts of suicide.

What is stigma!

Institutional stigma involves organizations that unintentionally or intentionally limit opportunities for mental health services.
Public stigma is the discriminatory or negative attitudes that others have about mental health. [wrongly labeled]
Self-stigma is the invisible mark of shame that is put on self.

 The effects of stigma!

Feelings of shame, hopelessness, weakness, isolation, lower self-esteem.
Difficulties in relationship, difficulties in job performance.
Less likely to seek help or treatment.
Less likely to stay with treatment.

Extinguish the Stigma!

Firefighter Resources

Fire Service Families

Other Resources