In a powerful and eye-opening exploration of the often-ignored mental health crisis among first responders, the documentary “The Call We Carry” has emerged as a beacon of hope. This film fearlessly tackles the pervasive issue of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) within the fire service, aiming to dismantle the barriers and stigma surrounding mental health in this noble profession. Dedicated to raising awareness and providing support, “The Call We Carry” has been nominated for a Hooley Award.
Originally created as a brief five-minute awareness video for Tacoma Firefighters, the project quickly evolved into something much larger with a bigger impact. Recognizing the need to address the effects emergency services have on the mental well-being of first responders, the creators of “The Call We Carry” embarked on a mission to share the stories of four Tacoma Firefighters. Through their narratives of pain, sacrifice and resilience, the film delves deep into the psychological toll that the increasing call volume has taken on these brave individuals.
Statistics paint a picture of the mental health crisis within the fire service. Shockingly, the film states over 37% of first responders meet the clinical diagnosis for PTSD, yet many go untreated or remain unrecognized. Compounding this issue is the culture of strength and stoicism that prevails among firefighters, often discouraging individuals from seeking help. “The Call We Carry” challenges this culture head-on, shedding light on the urgent need for change.
The driving force behind the film is Cody Shea, a dedicated filmmaker who poured his heart and soul into the project. Cody devoted countless hours to filming and editing, all while navigating his own personal journey with PTSD. His selflessness and commitment to the cause are evident throughout the documentary, making “The Call We Carry” a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Since its release, the impact of “The Call We Carry” has been nothing short of remarkable. The film has already saved lives, providing a lifeline of support and understanding for current first responders who have been silently battling. By addressing the issue directly and sharing invaluable resources, the documentary offers hope and empowers those who may have felt alone in their struggles.
What sets “The Call We Carry” apart is its accessibility. Recognizing the urgency of the matter, the creators decided to make the film available for free on YouTube. This decision ensures that any first responder who may be in need of its message can easily access it. By sharing the documentary openly, they have created a platform for dialogue and support, fostering a sense of community among those who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting others.
The Hooley Award nomination for “The Call We Carry” acknowledges its impact and exceptional contribution to addressing mental health in the fire service. This recognition is a testament to the filmmakers’ dedication to shedding light on a critical issue that affects the well-being and lives of countless individuals.
As the documentary continues to make waves and touch the hearts of viewers, the hope is that it will catalyze much-needed change within the fire service. By inspiring open conversations and encouraging a shift in the prevailing culture, “The Call We Carry” serves as a rallying cry for better mental health support and recognition of the sacrifices made by first responders.
To watch “The Call We Carry” and join the conversation surrounding mental health in the fire service, visit the YouTube link.
Cody Shea and “The Call We Carry” were finalists for ImageTrend’s 2023 Hooley Awards in the New Frontier category. The Hooley Awards recognize innovators and thought leaders, honoring their involvement, creativity, and passion, and were founded to acknowledge their contributions in innovation and excellence. The Hooley Awards finalists were celebrated, and the winners were announced during the 15th annual ImageTrend Connect Conference in July 2023.