Matthew Fiorenza, a former firefighter and paramedic turned mental health advocate shares how the traumas encountered on the job silently chipped away at his mental health. He bravely battled through the depths of depression, PTSD, suicidal ideation, traumatic brain injury, and substance abuse. We discuss the pivotal moments that ultimately led him to seek help and the healing modalities that made all the difference, including a promising new treatment: the stellate ganglion block. Other life-saving practices include meditation, the Save a Warrior program, and his profound spiritual connections. Matty's story serves as a beacon of hope for first responders facing similar battles and the importance of addressing mental health in high-stress professions.
In this episode:
- The impact of distressing calls on mental health.
- The lack of behavioral health support for first responders.
- The struggle with alcoholism and the discovery of transformative meditation.
- Attending the Save a Warrior program and its life-changing effects.
- Matty’s advocacy work and teaching his practice to others.
- The positive impact of accountability, peer support and “karma butterflies”.
Links & Resources:
PTSD911 Movie:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Charity: www.nextrung.org
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