Calgary conference aims to help first responders with mental health challenges

A majority of first responders have suffered at least one traumatic incident during their careers, says info from Public Safety Canada. (File)

A conference in Calgary is bringing together first responders from across Alberta to discuss mental health.

Hosted by Wounded Warriors Canada and Trillium Health Partners, the event will provide attendees the opportunity to learn about research, training, organizational supports, as well as individual and family-based care.

The audience will include members from the public safety sector, including police officers, paramedics, firefighters, and their families.

Health care professionals and others who are a key part to the psychological health and safety of those who keep our communities safe will also be in attendance.

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A report published by Public Safety Canada in 2023 shows 85 per cent of public safety officers had experienced at least one traumatic incident, and 45 per cent had one or more mental health disorders.

According to the Calgary Police Service, around 19 per cent of police officers are currently on leave or accommodations, many due to physical or mental injuries, with 13 per cent of those officers being accommodated in roles that contribute to the service.

Speakers at Tuesday’s conference will include CPS, the Alberta Professional Firefighters and Paramedics Association and Alberta’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis.

It will also feature a keynote address from four-time Olympic gold medalist and member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, Hayley Wickenheiser.

This is the second annual conference of its kind in Western Canada. The first took place in Edmonton.