Revitalist’s CEO, Kathryn Walker, sported a shirt that read, ‘Therapy is for the STRONG’ over Labor Day Weekend while participating in the annual Scorpio 5K that helps fund Sullivan County’s SWAT team.
Not only is police work the second highest profession of those who suffer from PTSD–second only to Military Service–but approximately 15% of officers in the US experience PTSD symptoms. With stats like these it’s important that our officers feel safe out in the field. The money from last year’s race went towards protective vests for the officers, which can go for $5,000 – $6,000 a piece.
This year’s funding is going towards buying helmets, as well as out-of-town training.
Also at the race were officers from departments around the area, who came out to show their support for their fellow officers. With Kathryn Walker stood Greenville Police Officer Dave Shell, who shed some light on why events like the Scorpio 5K are so important.
“Unfortunately, people hate us just because of the uniform we’re wearing,” says Shell. “It’s not because of the person you are, it’s because of what we wear and what it signifies. This is an opportunity for people to get out and meet in a non-threatening way and you to realize officers are just normal people [serving the community].”
Normal people with a higher chance of experiencing both PTSD symptoms and chronic pain, which is where clinics like Revitalist can help.
At Revitalist, we understand the stress that a police officer is under, especially those serving on the SWAT team. It’s important that we as a community help protect those who risk their lives protecting us.
That starts by understanding the stats:
- Approximately 15% of officers in the US experience PTSD symptoms.
- Police work is the second highest profession of those who suffer from PTSD
- Second only to Military Service.
- 1 in 4 officers have considered suicide.
- Individuals with PTSD are more likely to suffer from chronic pain.
- 55% of officers report occasional back pain, and 10% report chronic pain.