P.E.I. launches free, online mental health support program for Island public safety workers
A free, online mental health support program is now available for public safety workers on Prince Edward Island.
In a news release from the province Thursday, it says Public Safety Calls is a new bilingual mental health program designed to meet the unique needs of public safety personnel (PSP).
Those targeted for help include, correctional workers, volunteer and career firefighters, search and rescue volunteers, paramedics, police officers and public safety communicators.
"Nearly all our clients say the program was worth their time, and over 90 per cent report increased confidence in managing their symptoms from post-traumatic stress injuries, depression or anxiety," said Dr. Heather Hadjistavropoulos, professor of psychology at the University of Regina and director of the University of Regina’s clinical research unit, PSPNET. "It is a privilege for our team to deliver these supports to PSP and we appreciate the opportunity to extend our work to PSP in Prince Edward Island."
The province says the new confidential, evidence-based program, was developed and delivered by trained clinicians and researchers from the University of Regina’s clinical research unit, PSPNET.
“The people who serve on the frontlines of public safety perform a very valuable service. But their work can have a high emotional and mental cost. This new service can help care for these caregivers by offering mental health services that is accessible from home, or in the community across the province, so that Islanders can get the support they need, when and where they need it,” said Health and Wellness Minister Ernie Hudson.
The program uses internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy (ICBT) and course work to help participants overcome the mental health challenges they may develop as a result of their occupation.
“There are close to 1,300 Islanders who volunteer or who have chosen a career to serve and protect Islanders and this province. The toll this can take on their mental health has been well documented, and we need to do something to support them," said Justice and Public Safety Minister Bloyce Thompson. "Public Safety Calls, with the expertise of the PSPNET therapists, is designed with public safety partners and the traumatic events they experience in mind.”
The program will run as a two-year pilot project at no cost to eligible workers, and will provide up to 16 weeks of therapist supports and the option to take two eight-week courses.
"They will also receive secure weekly online, and phone supports from trained therapist, where they are provided individual support and are able to learn various skills and techniques to identify and manage anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress or injury," reads the release.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Grandparents killed in wrong-way crash on Hwy. 401 identified
A 60-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman killed in a wrong-way crash on Highway 401 earlier this week have been identified by the Consulate General of India in Toronto.
Police arrest 3 Indian nationals in killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Three people have been arrested and charged in the killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar – as authorities continue investigating potential connections to the Indian government.
Suter scores late goal, clinches series for Canucks
Pius Suter scored with 1:39 left and the Vancouver Canucks advanced to the second round of the NHL playoffs with a 1-0 victory over the Nashville Predators on Friday night in Game 6.
TD worst-case scenario more likely after drug money laundering allegations: analyst
TD Bank Group could be hit with more severe penalties than previously expected, says a banking analyst after a report that the investigation it faces in the U.S. is tied to laundering illicit fentanyl profits.
Quebec man who threatened Trudeau, Legault online sentenced to 20 months in jail
A Quebec man who pleaded guilty to threatening Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier François Legault has been sentenced to 20 months in jail.
Human remains found in rural Sask. possibly a decade old, RCMP say
RCMP say human remains found in a rural area in central Saskatchewan may have been there for a decade or more.
Britney Spears 'home and safe' after paramedics responded to an incident at the Chateau Marmont, source tells CNN
A source close to singer Britney Spears tells CNN that the pop star is 'home and safe' after she had a 'major fight' with her boyfriend on Wednesday night at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood.
Canadian doctor concerned new weight-loss drug Wegovy may be used inappropriately
As Wegovy becomes available to Canadians starting Monday, a medical expert is cautioning patients wanting to use the drug to lose weight that no medication is a ''magic bullet,' and the new medication is meant particularly for people who meet certain criteria related to obesity and weight.
Drew Carey is never quitting 'The Price Is Right'
Drew Carey took over as host of 'The Price Is Right' and hopes he’s there for life. 'I'm not going anywhere,' he told 'Entertainment Tonight' of the job he took over from longtime host Bob Barker in 2007.