MOUNT ORAB, Ohio (WXIX) – The death of a Scott Township firefighter brings awareness to the mental health needs of first responders and emergency personnel.
Sean Last, 43, died by suicide. His family described him as a quiet and kind man who loved his job.
His father, James Last, served in the United States Army. He said his son had a heart for service just like he did.
“He wanted to be in the Air Force,” James said. “He wanted to join the army, but they wouldn’t accept him because he had a heart murmur. So he became a firefighter.”
Sean joined the Scott Township Fire Department in 2018. He seemed happy and satisfied with his work. His death shocked his family. He left behind a 15-year-old daughter.
His family said it’s good to see more awareness of mental health and PTSD in society, but it’s not reaching firefighters.
“I didn’t know that firefighters didn’t get the same treatment for PTSD, and I think he did too,” James said.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, PTSD is a condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.
“He went into the fire and there he put his foot in the woman’s intestines,” James said. “That gave him nightmares.”
A 2016 study published in the journal Psychiatric Services said firefighters with less experience are less likely to receive treatment than more veteran firefighters. James believes that Sean was also part of the former group.
Covington Fire Department Deputy Chief Jimmy Adams said he attempted suicide 21 years ago but survived. He said the attempt was caused by PTSD.
According to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, firefighters develop post-traumatic stress at a similar rate to military personnel returning from combat, leading to an increase in the number of suicides.
“Most days you see the worst the world has to offer,” Adams said. “It seems disproportionate when you think about the number of people who have visited the Covington Fire Department and the number of people who have taken their own lives. It’s higher than it should be.”
Adams said he is now working with his crew to break down the stigma of PTSD and get him the help he needs. He needs to do that in all departments, he said.
“If you know a firefighter, think about what they’re going through,” Adams said. “Everyone takes them for granted and they deserve consideration, understanding and the support they need.”
Sean’s visit is on Friday. His funeral is Saturday. The family has set up a GoFundMe for Sean to help pay for funeral expenses.
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