Former Paramedic Opens Up about Navigating First Responder Life with Bipolar Disorder and PTSD
[CITY, STATE] – A former paramedic is sharing his story of working on the front lines while battling bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), shedding light on the challenges faced by first responders living with mental illness and the stigma that often accompanies it. John towns (pseudonym),author of the memoir Heart of Rescue: A Bipolar and PTSD Self-Help Memoir,detailed his experiences in a recent interview,revealing how his condition both aided and hindered his ability to perform his duties.
Towns explained that the manic phases of his bipolar disorder sometimes provided a beneficial “sharpness, focus and energy,” particularly crucial during demanding overnight shifts. He stated, “mania gave me a little extra sharpness, focus and energy, which is what you need at three in the morning, and what is required to be respected by other first responders and by the public. So bipolar, in that respect, helped me.”
Though, Towns also described the debilitating impact of combined depression from bipolar disorder and PTSD, developed after responding to numerous ”traumatic” calls. He noted the difficulties this presented in performing his job.
Towns recounted facing significant workplace stigma,experiencing job loss after disclosing his bipolar diagnosis to colleagues in civilian positions. He also observed that even displaying symptoms of a bipolar episode – either depression or mania – could lead to negative repercussions.
Despite these challenges, Towns emphasizes the importance of living a full life despite mental illness. He advises those struggling with chronic mental illness, particularly at a young age, to “go ahead, keep living your life…try to appreciate the good, and when the bad happens, make sure you get help, whether itS from friends, family, or professionals.” He believes seeking support is key to improving one’s quality of life and finding joy through passion and dedication.
Offering a message of hope to those experiencing emotional pain and hopelessness, towns recalled the sentiment, ”to every thing there is a season,” emphasizing that challenging times are temporary.
Currently, Towns dedicates his time to giving back, both by offering roadside assistance when needed and by serving as a support group facilitator with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), helping others navigate their own mental health journeys.
