An Ottawa-based RCMP officer says Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a very real occupational hazard for police and other emergency service workers.
Peter Neily is talking about what he calls his Occupational Stress Injury, sustained after a fatal shooting he was involved with five years ago while on duty in Surrey, B.C.
While Neily was cleared of any wrong-doing, he says he began to drink heavily, suffered nightmares, became paranoid and difficult to work and live with.
But he says prefers not to call his condition PTSD.
“You know you say disorder and the meaning of disorder is “out of order”. And realistically I don’t like the labelling. You may have this issue that you deal with, but you’re back to being a productive and contributing member of society. So to be labeled with a disorder is difficult.”
Neily says he is back on duty with the RCMP, he is a volunteer and speaks about his experiences.
Neily is in northwestern Ontario as part of the Bell Let’s talk campaign during Mental Illness Awareness Week.
RCMP officer Peter Neily address mental issues at Seven Generations. pic.twitter.com/9dtQzzThq3
— 89.5 The Lake News (@895TheLakeNews) October 5, 2016
