The article, In Harm's Way: The PTSD Crisis among Canada’s First Respondersdiscussed the ongoing problem of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experienced by first responders. PTSD is a mental health condition caused by witnessing or experiencing actual or threatened death, serious injury or violence. It is clear that there is a stigma associated with being a first responder and is a significant barrier to seeking much needed help leaving first responders suffering from PTSD without any support.In the interviews, the first responders spoke about the kind of symptoms they experience while suffering from PTSD. Symptoms mentioned included Intrusive symptoms like nightmare and flashback, behaviors reflecting avoidance of places and people and negative thoughts as well as negative changes. Sergeant Jag Soin who was with the RCMP for more than twenty years talked about his struggles with PSTD experiencing constant flashbacks, nightmares and the use of alcohol as self-medication that helped
