Some jobs inherently increase the risk of being exposed to traumatic events, such as first responders, corrections and military personnel.
A new resource from Canada’s Public Services Health and Safety Association (PSHSA) offers resources and services for the First Responder community to understand the various steps of a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) program, from managing a crisis through to implementing best practices into an existing program.
The new #FirstRespondersFirst Toolkit provides a PTSD Prevention Program Framework, Self-Assessment, Employer’s Resource Guide, and PTSD Prevention Plan.
PTSD is a mental health condition caused by witnessing or experiencing actual or threatened death, serious injury or violence. Being affected by these types of events is normal, however if the thoughts or memories of these events start to seriously affect the life of the person long after the event, that person could be experiencing PTSD.
Signs that someone may be experiencing PTSD include nightmares, uncontrollable memories, persistent fear and severe anxiety.
PSHSA funded by the Ontario Ministry of Labour and works with Ontario’s Public and Broader Public Sector employers and workers, provides training, consulting and resources to reduce workplace risks and prevent occupational injuries and illnesses.
Visit the website: http://www.firstrespondersfirst.ca/