Channel 8 News Covers Issue of First Responder Suicides

Cleveland’s Channel 8 News showed a video on “First Responders’ Death by Suicide” this morning, reminding viewers of the onerous mental health issues facing Fire, Police, and other Public Safety providers. PSP’s Dr. Kurt Jensen was interviewed for this piece and provided information on how we might better address this crisis.

The video’s focus on Ken Wilson, a Madison Ohio Firefighter who died by suicide in 2021, highlighted ways that loved ones are impacted by these tragic events. Reporter Jessica Dill covered the topic with care and compassion, at the same time providing critical information on how to identify and assist those at risk.

Dr. Jensen described some of the factors that might prevent First Responders from reaching out for help when dealing with job-related trauma. He identified common obstacles they experience when seeking treatment and ways to work around these challenges to secure timely, targeted care. For more on this topic, please watch the video on Channel 8’s website or contact Public Safety Psychologists directly.