A new program aimed at improving the mental health of Nova Scotia’s first responders and other public safety personnel launched today.
PSPNET, a free, confidential program is designed for paramedics, police, firefighters, correctional workers, search and rescue, 911 operators, border services officers and others in the public safety field.
Developed by a team of clinicians and researchers at the University of Regina, the online cognitive behaviour therapy modules address anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress.
The two-year pilot program is a partnership between Department of Justice’s Public Safety Division, the Office of Addictions and Mental Health, the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment, and Medavie.
The program includes a combination of secure email and phone calls, and runs eight to 16 weeks depending on need of the individual.
The program is now available in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Quebec and Saskatchewan.