In recognition of PTSD Awareness Month, Jason Cerrano, former firefighter/paramedic and SAM inventor, recently spoke with The National News Desk to highlight the mental health challenges facing first responders.
Drawing from his own experience, Cerrano emphasized how repeated exposure to traumatic events can take a lasting toll. “The stuff builds up,” he shared, noting that what may be once-in-a-lifetime tragedy for most people can be a regular occurrence for those in the field.
Cerrano stressed the importance of normalizing conversations around mental health and encouraging firefighters, EMS personnel, and other emergency responders to seek support. With higher rates of PTSD and related challenges across the profession, raising awareness is a critical step toward ensuring those who serve communities also receive the care they need.
His message is clear: supporting first responders starts with listening, understanding, and making mental health a priority across the industry.