It's just me today. We talk a little bit about conquering fear and anxiety and some of the good coming out of this pandemic. I also read to you the first chapter of my book.

CAL Fire Captain Noelle Bahnmiller tells her story of becoming a paramedic and then a firefighter. She shares how PTSD drove her to depression and thinking of suicide. Noelle's authenticity and introspection is captivating. This is an episode you will not want to miss.

Mike Koch, a former undercover narcotics officer, spent 19 years on the job. He began as an eager and dedicated officer who served his community with honor. As with many other officers, he used alcohol to numb the pain and trauma he experienced at work. After a series of injuries with the resulting prescription of pain meds, Mike became addicted to narcotics. Mike tells the story of his spiral into addiction, losing everything, and doing the work to reclaim his life. Mike is an exceptional example of resiliency and truly inspirational. Mike now works with first responders who have PTSD and issues of addiction. He also has is own podcast, Positive Connections.

Christy Warren joins Mental Health News Radio Network to talk about her diagnosis of PTSD. She thought her life was over. Tune in as she goes in depth on being a female firefighter and how stigma about mental health made treatment options seem impossible...until they weren't!

Your host, Christy Warren, is a retired fire captain from the Berkeley Fire Department (California). She has 25 years of service as a first responder. She was diagnosed with PTSD and her world was shattered. The stigma and appearing weak were great obstacles to her recovery. She finally went to therapy, took medications, and attended a retreat for first responders with PTSD. She now serves as a peer at this retreat and is getting ready to release her gritty and honest book about her career, struggles, and recovery from PTSD.