The gripping account of Deborah Green, a retired dispatcher with over 20 years of experience, is not one to miss. As a veteran of the military, Deborah's stories, from being shot at during the 1992 LA Riots to dealing with the tragic death of an officer in a shooting, bring home the stark realities faced by first responders. Join us, as we unravel Debra's experiences, highlighting the toll dispatching takes on one's mental health, and the importance of decompression after such high-pressure situations.
Our conversation goes beyond just the professional aspect. We delve into Debra's personal journey, where she shares her experience with trauma and how it affected her mental health. Hear first-hand, the impact of an officer-involved shooting that resulted in the unfortunate loss of her deputy. Deborah's openness about her therapeutic journey, the coping strategies she adopted, and the importance of peer support are heartrending and inspiring in equal measures.
The challenges Deborah faced while navigating the workers' comp system after such a traumatic event lay bare the significant mental health challenges first responders often struggle with. Debra's story is one of resilience and determination - from fighting for her rights within the workers' comp system to finding the right therapies and treatments for her mental health. Our discussion underscores the importance of having robust support systems in place for first responders, and the need for a healthier, more understanding community. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation about the realities on the front lines of civil unrest, the importance of mental health, and the indomitable spirit of our first responders.