Commissioner Diaz supports PTSD study on first responders

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY – The Miami-Dade County Commission on May 7 approved a resolution sponsored by Commissioner Jose “Pepe” Diaz directing the County administration to prepare a report regarding the prevalence of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among Miami-Dade County firefighters and first responders and recommending steps to address the issue. The administration has six months to complete the report.

Studies have shown that between 7 and 37 percent of firefighters nationwide may have PTSD, which affects people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as the kind first responders frequently encounter in the performance of their duties.

“Knowing how many of our first responders may be suffering from PTSD would help the County develop strategies for dealing with it,” Commissioner Diaz said.