Sit Around the Fire

#005 Pete DePrez: Reframing Trauma, Mental Health, and Recovery


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What if the heroes who rush toward danger need saving themselves? Join us as Pete, a former sheriff deputy, SWAT member, FTO, and fire arms instructor in Colorado, opens up about his arduous journey through trauma, mental health struggles, and recovery. With service spanning over a decade, Pete shares his deeply personal story, from a head injury at 18 months old to the relentless challenges faced in law enforcement. His struggle with chronic sleep issues led to alcohol addiction, a battle he eventually conquered, illuminating the often unseen mental health battles that first responders endure.

In our conversation, Pete courageously tackles the stigma of PTSD and prescription medication, revealing how he navigated these challenges while maintaining a demanding professional life. Discover the difficult decisions he made, such as taking a leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act, and his experiences with medications like Lexapro and Xanax. As perceptions of mental health slowly evolve, Pete's story underscores the critical need for awareness and support in professional environments, offering hope and inspiration for change.

Connect with Pete at AMS Foundation
https://asmfoundation.com/

Welcome to Sit Around the Fire! https://sitaroundthefire.org

Healing happens in community.

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Sit Around the FireBy Ashlea Dillard