Deputy Chief Chris Sanborn of the Gorham Police Department and Sgt. John Lizanecz of York Police Department will be jointly heading up the Southern Maine Post Traumatic Stress Management Team which has been created to assist police officers and emergency personnel in coping with the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or daily stressors they can encounter, through one on one support or groups to help personnel cope. The team can also assist employees in referrals to licensed clinicians or pastoral services.
Those working in emergency services should have access to service at no cost to the employee. Guidelines are in place to allow a confidential, consistent and standardized approach to handle requests for assistance for those who have encountered stressful events either personally or professionally.
The PTSM Team will be available 24/7 at no cost to anyone affiliated with a law enforcement agency in Maine. Anyone with questions or in need of help should contact Deputy Chief Sanborn at 839-5581. Calls will remain confidential.