PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — June is PTSD Awareness Month, and the Philadelphia Fire Department's Employee Assistance Program is holding a two-day seminar at the Fire Academy. Their EAP is hoping to help members and their families who are struggling.
"Many people don't even realize they are suffering from post-traumatic stress. It comes in all shapes, sizes and forms," said Battalion Chief and Employee Relations Officer Anne Marie Lewandowski, who is in charge of the event.
She said the Employee Assistance Peer Counseling Unit is available for any member of the fire department, Fire Communications Center, and Office of Emergency Management, as well as their families and retirees.
"We can't share certain things with our spouses, partners, our loved ones at home. They don't understand us. They just don't get it," Lewandowski explained.
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"That's why having peers in the unit is so, so valuable — because we've been there. We have seen these things. We know. We get you."
To spot PTSD, Lewandowski says, look out for reclusive or really loud behavior, loss of appetite and sleep, and inability to concentrate and focus.
She also said people should have no fear seeking the help they need.
"One thing I would like to stress: Everything really is confidential," she said.
The event continues Thursday at the Philadelphia Fire Academy from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.