ABOUT THE PROJECT

LOGLINE
PTSD911 explores the struggle of emergency first responders who battle the demons of post-traumatic stress but are often afraid of losing their job if they ask for help.

SYNOPSIS
PTSD911 explores the struggle of first responders who battle the demons of post-traumatic stress and who are often afraid of the very real threat of losing their job if they ask for help. The film focuses on first responders from law enforcement, fire, EMS, and dispatch agencies, who are struggling to keep their jobs, their sanity, health and even personal relationships after traumatic incidents.

PTSD911 follows the progress of a veteran police officer who reaches out for help but is ostracized by fellow officers and by her police department leaders. The traumas this officer and first responders like her see and experience goes home with them at the end of the shift, impacting their families and relationships as well. Many cannot shake the sights, sounds, and smells from their memory, and in order to cope often turn to self-destructive habits and, sadly, suicide, at an increasing rate.

Compelling interviews with leading experts such as councellors, physicians, and researchers, who study post-traumatic stress and work with first responders, enhance the stories and help the viewers better understand the science behind trauma. The interviews with subject matter experts will be supported by case studies of first responders who have successfully navigated to a healthy recovery. One firefighter from Anaheim, CA who nearly ended his own life after struggling with PTSD now works with other first responders who have been diagnosed. He teaches meditation and other coping mechanisms to help fire fighters stay healthy.

Ultimately PTSD911 sheds light on the hidden and often stigmatized mental health issues impacting many first responders across the world and shows how first responders can get help, and that it’s okay to ask for help. PTSD911 will also inspire agencies to make systemic changes in how they train and support their members.

PROJECT TYPE Documentary Feature

DIRECTOR Conrad Weaver
PRODUCER Nancy Frohman

WEBSITE ptsd911movie.com