FLAGSTAFF, AZ (AZFamily) — The city of Flagstaff has a new partnership with a local mental health clinic to provide local first responders with critical counseling.

According to the National Institute of Health , 10% to 35% of first responders will experience some kind of mental health disorder, like PTSD or anxiety. Police, firefighters and EMS responders spend their days visiting people on their worst days. They deal with death and dangerous situations, which takes its toll.

Seth Gregar, Flagstaff Fire EMS battalion chief, said it’s been a battle for decades to try to break mental health stigmas for first responders.

“‘You’re a firefighter, tough it out.’ I’ve been told that many times early in my career,” Gregar said. “I don’t think you can ever prepare for what you’re going to see

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