Firefighter's death shows importance of monitoring, treating mental health

The tragic death by suicide of firefighter and Indian River County community hero Fire Rescue Battalion Chief David Dangerfield underscores several harsh realities.

The first and most important is that Indian River County lost a true hero and friend.

David was loved by many people and his death is a major loss for the residents of Indian River County. Heartfelt condolences go to all who knew him, his family, his friends, his co-workers, and all those who were touched by his work.

There are several other messages that come immediately to mind:

Even strong, successful, intelligent, caring people may end their lives by suicide.

Our society needs to do a much better job educating its citizens about mental health issues.

We need to reduce the stigma associated with receiving mental health treatment and care.

And we need to increase funding and access to mental health care.

The sad statistics, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, reveal that suicides are on the increase in the United States, topping over 42,000 in 2014.

Florida had over 1,900 – Indian River County had 26, St. Lucie 46 and Martin County 24. These numbers are on the increase, particularly in the white, middle-aged male category, and in pre-teen females.

Surely we, as a society, can do better than this.

It isn't possible to predict death by suicide but there are ways to identify people who are at increased risk for suicidal behavior, take precautions and refer them for effective treatment.

Among them are changes in sleep or eating patterns, neglect of personal appearance, depression, sadness, anger, aggression, the loss of a job or a financial setback, alcohol or drug abuse, self-mutilation, isolation, loss of interest in activities/hobbies, and trouble with school or work.

Urgent danger signs could include: hopelessness; talking, writing or hinting about suicide; lethargy; apathy or sadness; extreme changes of behavior; putting one's affairs in order; a relationship breakup; buying weapons or stockpiling drugs; reckless behavior; and/or suddenly being happier or calmer.

All threats of suicide and all suicide attempts should be taken seriously.

A past history of suicide attempts is one of the strongest risk factors. Listen and look for the red flags mentioned above. And be ready to act.

For instance, do not leave the person alone. Instead say, "I will get you some help," then call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK, and/or go to SAMSHA's Mental Health Services Locator at www.Mentalhealth.samsha.gov/ databases/. Hospital emergency rooms can screen someone for suicidal ideation.

There are several mental health organizations in our area that can assist an individual with mental health disorders.

Research indicates that 80 to 90 percent of those treated for depression have a positive outcome with therapy and/or medication. Unfortunately, only 33 to 40 percent of those with depression will receive treatment.

Sadly, Indian River County Fire Rescue Battalion Chief David Dangerfield suffered from PTSD resulting from his life-saving work in our community. Many first responders, veterans, and victims of sexual assaults also suffer from PTSD.

Just before his death, David Dangerfield wrote a chilling Facebook post:

"PTSD for firefighters is real, 27 years of deaths and babies dying in your hands is a memory that you will never get rid of. It haunted me daily until now."

His death demonstrates the importance of monitoring our mental health status and that of our loved ones, and reaching out for help when needed – just as we do when our physical health is challenged.

Rest in peace David Dangerfield. You are a true community hero and will not be forgotten.

Art Ciasca is CEO of Suncoast Mental Health Center.