“Seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength”

As Eric Snyder explains to the patrollers at Bear Creek Ski Patrol in Pennsylvania.  Eric is a full-time paid patroller at Bear Creek, an OEC Instructor, and an active Instructor and Evaluator in the Pennsylvania State EMT System.  He is also an active member of the Eastern Division PSA Team.

PSA stands for “Patroller Stress-Awareness” Team.  The team is charged with publicizing the importance of job-related stress among Ski patrollers, to let our membership know that help is available.  But more important than providing avenues for help, the team’s mission is to help break down the stigma of asking for help.

Getting help early after a traumatic stress episode is key for easing a patroller’s stress.  Stress builds over time causing a slow spiraling feeling which can lead to depression, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  Coping with such trauma is easier when tapping into the network of services that already exist for emergency and medical workers.  The PSA Team is on a mission to spread the word and provide access to resources that have been proven to help.

Please help us spread the word.  Pass this onto Patrol Directors and leaders at your local mountain.  It is as easy as remembering to send patrollers to the Eastern Division website at search “coping with stress.”