Mental health resources for first responders and public safety personnel

Mental wellbeing of first responders and public safety personnel

First responders and public safety personnel are frontline workers who respond to emergencies and 911 calls. They include, but are not limited to:

• police officers
• correctional workers and probation and parole officers
• coroners
• forensic pathologists
• fire fighters and fire investigators
• forensic scientists
• field officers
• paramedics
• ambulance communication officers
• animal welfare inspectors

First responders and public safety personnel are at a higher risk of experiencing occupational stress injuries because of routine exposure to traumatic events while responding to emergencies. This can lead to a range of mental health conditions, such as:

• anxiety
• depression
• post-traumatic stress injuries

The experiences of first responders and public safety personnel can impact everyone around them, including colleagues, family members and friends. Understanding the importance of mental health can help you recognize early signs and risks to mental health and wellbeing. Providing resources to serving and retired first responders, public safety personnel and their families may be an effective option in supporting a person’s mental health and wellbeing.

Find mental health resources

Mental health is just as important as physical health when it comes to your wellbeing. Help is available. Talk to someone.

Professional confidential resources

Here are some resources that provide access to confidential mental health supports.

General mental health resources

If you need help finding mental health support, you may contact:

• your employer, for internal workplace resources and support options
• your employee and family assistance program provider, if applicable
• a trusted family member, friend, colleague or acquaintance

Additional resources

Additional information on mental health services and supports for you or your loved ones:

• general mental health support in Ontario
• mental health and addiction services in your community
• health care in Ontario
• mental health in the workplace
• COVID-19 pandemic – mental health, wellness and addictions support