All jobs can be stressful, but then there are jobs like being a first responder, where you see and experience things on a daily basis that most people never do.
That's why addressing and maintaining mental health is so important for first responders.
New Hanover County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Lt. Jerry Brewer said unfortunately, deputies run into traumatic events often. He told a story about an autistic kid who walked outside into a pond and drowned.
"Our deputies responded, and it was very traumatic," Brewer said. "If our deputies are deployed to a critical incident, we encourage them to talk about it. Talk to a peer who has gone through a traumatic event themselves."
The Wilmington Fire Department utilizes the same city mental health resources as the police department.
"Each person has their own way of dealing with mental health issues," said Wilmington Fire Department Headquarters Capt. of Engine 4 Chuck Bower.