Links and Resources

 

Website: www.homeweb.ca
Phone: 1-800-663-1142

Homewood Health provides Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) services for all PHSA employees.

PHSA staff - including full-time, part-time and casual employees - and their dependent family members can access Homewood services at no cost.

All services are confidential and comply with federal privacy laws. PHSA does not receive information that identifies individuals who use counselling, Plan Smart services or online resources. Homewood only reports overall program usage data to PHSA.

 

BC First Responders' Mental Health offers resources for first responders across British Columbia and their families.

The website includes information about:

  • Mental health education
  • Critical incident stress signs and symptoms
  • Mental health assessments
  • WorkSafe BC claims guidelines
  • Additional tools and resources for first responders
 

 
 

 
A Hero Lives in my Family: A story for kids of first responders

Author: Dr. Susan Hunt, registered psychologist

Heroic Families Workbook: For first responders and their kids

Author: Dr. Susan Hunt

Emotional Survival for Law Enforcement: A guide​ for officers and their families

Author: Kevin M. Gilmartin, PhD

Emotional Survival for Law Enforcement explores how the demands of law enforcement work can affect employees both personally and professionally over time.

It explains how job-related stress can contribute to negative behaviour patterns, decision-making challenges, and difficulties at work and at home.

The book also provides practical strategies to help law enforcement professionals reduce the emotional impact of their work and stay engaged in healthy, productive careers.

 
PTSD Coach Canada

PTSD Coach Canada can help you understand and manage symptoms that may occur after trauma. Features include:

  • Trusted information about PTSD and effective treatments
  • Tools to screen for and track symptoms
  • Easy-to-use stress management tools
  • Direct links to support services
  • Access whenever you need it
Headspace

Headspace is a meditation and mindfulness app designed to help reduce stress and anxiety.

Research suggests that mindfulness meditation can have a positive effect on overall well-being, including anxiety and stress management.

 

The Operational Stress Injury Resource for Caregivers is a free, self-guided online tool for caregivers and families of Canadian Armed Forces members and veterans living with an operational stress injury.

Many of the tools and resources may also be helpful for first responder families.

This resource was developed through a partnership between Veterans Affairs Canada, Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services, and the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Care Group.

 
Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)

Phone: 1-855-969-4321

CISM is a peer support program that promotes wellness through education, resources and critical incident stress management services. Confidential support and referrals to mental health professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Homewood Health (EFAP)

Phone: 1-800-663-1142

Homewood Health provides confidential counselling and support for a wide range of personal and workplace challenges. Services are available 24/7.

Crisis Line

Phone: 1-800-784-2433

Anyone in British Columbia can call for emotional support and help connecting with local resources, including support groups, counselling services, bereavement support and community programs. Available 24/7.

 
  • ‎Honour House:
    Provides free accommodation for first responders and their families while receiving medical treatment in the Lower Mainland.
  • EHN Bellwood Toronto:
    A specialized treatment centre that provides evidence-based care for addiction and mental health concerns.
  • Can Praxis:
    Uses horse-assisted programs to help military members recover from the effects of service and strengthen family relationships.
  • Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention:
    Provides information, resources and support to help reduce suicide and lessen the impact of suicidal behaviour on individuals and communities.
  • Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA):
    A national organization that promotes mental health and supports people experiencing mental illness through advocacy, education, research and programs.
  • Canadian Psychological Association:
    The national professional organization for psychology in Canada. Psychologists and psychological associates can help treat PTSD, operational stress injuries, mood disorders and other mental health concerns. Visit the association's website to find a psychologist.
  • Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH):
    Canada's largest mental health and addiction teaching hospital and a leading research centre. CAMH combines clinical care, research, education, policy development and health promotion to improve the lives of people affected by mental health and substance use challenges.