Nova Scotia launches new mental health program to help public safety workers

On Tuesday, the PC Government said PSPNET launched after being developed by a team of clinicians and researchers at the University of Regina

CityNews Halifax Staff

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The province launched a new online program aimed at helping Nova Scotia’s first responders improve their mental health.

On Tuesday, the PC Government said PSPNET launched after being developed by a team of clinicians and researchers at the University of Regina.

It’s free, confidential program aimed at helping paramedics, police, firefighters, correctional workers, among others.

“Police, paramedics, sheriffs, correctional officers and many other emergency workers see things every day that can be very traumatic,” said Justice Minister Brad Johns in a news release.

“We owe it to them to make sure supports are there to help them cope with mental health challenges they face because of the nature of their jobs.”

The province said the two year pilot program’s online cognitive behaviour therapy modules address anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress.

It includes a combination of secure email and phone calls, and runs eight to 16 weeks depending on need of the individual.

In addition to Nova Scotia, the program is also available in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Quebec and Saskatchewan.