As COVID-19 spreads across the country, thousands of brave men and women wage war against the virus on the front lines. The battle has left many of these responders with emotional scars that are hard to heal – and many find it hard to reach out for help.

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Michael Greco, Vice President of the FDNY EMS Local 2507 Union which represents over 4,000 uniformed EMTs, paramedics, and fire inspectors in the FDNY, says his members have seen “some of the worst things” they’ve ever seen, and he worries about the lasting effects the trauma may have.
 

“We do have a counseling service. We do have an ability to call over. There’s a 24-hour hotline,” Greco tells Dr. Phil about help for those suffering emotional trauma. “The member must be proactive to get that sort of help.”

WATCH: VP Of The FDNY EMS Local 2507 Says Members Saw ‘Some Of The Worst Things We’ve Ever Seen’ With COVID-19
 
“What often happens is there is a failure of the individual that’s suffering to recognize that this has gone beyond just being tired, being irritable, being frustrated, and so they don’t label this as something that needs attention,” Dr. Phil points out.
 
In the video above, Dr. Phil reviews the warning signs and red flags of PTSD to be aware of in someone’s behavior.
 
On Monday’s episode, Dr. Phil gives advice on how to help frontline workers break the stigma of being seen as weak or broken. Check here to see where you can watch.