In light of the recent tragedy in Vancouver, it’s more important than ever to highlight the urgent need for mental health support for First Responders and Public Safety Personnel (PSP). These dedicated individuals commit their lives to protecting and helping others—often at the expense of their own well-being.
As a Counselling Therapist who works with this community, and as the mother of a Paramedic, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact that repeated exposure to trauma and high-stress situations can have.
For those who serve our communities, your well-being is just as important as the lives you save. Tending to your mental health is not only essential—it’s a vital part of continuing to show up for others.
We must ensure that First Responders and PSPs have access to the support and resources they need. Caring for others is demanding work, and reaching out for help is a courageous and necessary act. True resilience means honouring the balance between supporting others and caring for yourself.
I’m grateful that my association, the Canadian Psychological Association, is helping raise awareness of these issues. For more insight, I highly recommend Megan McElheran’s article, Mental Health Training for the Front-Line: Moving from Reactive to Proactive: Read the article here
If you or someone you know is a First Responder or PSP looking for support, I offer compassionate, confidential counselling both in-person in St. Albert and virtually across several provinces. You don’t have to navigate the emotional weight of this work alone.
Annika Schaefer
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