Dave Washington Explores Mental Health Support for First Responders with Brenda Donoho and Lamar Lucas

Dave Washington hosts "Veterans Affairs Plus" on 91.5 jazz and more, discussing the importance of mental health support for first responders. He highlights the work of crisis intervention and stress management administrator Brenda Donoho and firefighter Lamar Lucas. Brenda emphasizes the need for trust and professional support to mitigate stress and trauma among firefighters. Lamar shares his experiences with PTSD and the importance of seeking counseling. Both stress the significance of debriefing and maintaining a support network outside the profession. They also discuss the high rates of suicide and divorce among first responders and the necessity of proactive mental health programs.