Originally posted: March 27, 2024
I was watching a recorded webinar on the Canadian Institute for Public Safety and Research (CIPSRT) website about a Multi-Method Study of the Factors Associated with Mental Health Programming for First Responders.” That’s a mouthful.
I thought I’d share what I learned, because the information reinforces that we are not alone navigating our mental health.
- There have been a large number of Canadian studies done on first responder mental health:
2. The analysis of the research studies divided the intervention types into categories and years:
- CISM = Critical Incident Stress Management
- BIO = Biofeedback
- CBT = Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- PSY = Psycho Education and Skill Building
- EXP = Exposure Based Treatments
- PEER = Peer Support
- WRT = ?
- WEL = General Wellness
- IPC = Intensive Professional Counselling
- RLX = Relaxation/Breathing
- MND = Mindfulness
- EXC = Exercise Based Program
- ANM = Animal Based Program
3. Regions where the research was conducted:
4. There are limitations.
Obviously, there is more information in the webinar, but I just wanted to hit the key points.
Summary:
First Responder mental health is real, and many professionals have studied it (especially in Ontario). There are proactive approaches and reactive approaches to addressing first responder mental health. Mental health Interventions cost money, the studies cost money, and there are varying conditions for each study which affects the results. Getting upstream of first responder mental health is the best approach.
Conclusion:
Professionals are saying that studying AND navigating first responder mental health is costly and complex.
Use your extended health benefits, get connected to a therapist and chip away at stuff as it comes up. You’ll be better equipped to navigate the rough waters downstream.