By EMS1 Staff
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — A retired paramedic created a group to help EMS providers cope with PTSD.
KDLT reported that Kent Meyer, who was a paramedic for 14 years, hopes to help first responders deal with PTSD that is caused by the job.
“It’s not just a job, it’s who you are, it’s a part of you,” Meyer said. “I felt alone, I felt all alone.”
Meyer said the trauma he saw on duty stayed with him.
“I was having nightmares and so I wasn’t sleeping, and due to being deprived of sleep, I started having hallucinations,” he said.
Meyer sought help at a mental hospital and was diagnosed with PTSD. After six months of intense therapy, Meyer created a group called Project Hope, which is aimed at helping others diagnosed with PTSD.
Fifteen volunteers with PTSD help other responders connect with health specialists.
“We have helped thousands of people and saved hundreds of lives,” Meyer said.
The Facebook page for Project Hope currently has over 8,600 members in 20 countries.
https://www.facebook.com/firstaid4heroes/posts/855586297940485