Support
Mental Health Continuum Model
When checking in on yourself or the first responder, where do you see the need for support?
This model recognizes that mental health is not black and white. The model goes from healthy, adaptive coping (green), through mild and reversible distress or functional impairment (yellow), to more severe, persistent injury or impairment (orange) to clinical illnesses and disorders requiring more concentrated medical care (red). This model, without diagnosing, will help guide you to explore options and access resources.
The arrows above the four colour blocks denote the fact that this is a continuum, with movement in both directions along the continuum, indicating that there is always the possibility for a return to full health and functioning. In this way, no one is ‘written off’ simply because they are showing symptoms of an illness or injury, or are being treated for a disorder or disease. There is also a recognition that the earlier that intervention is provided, the easier it is to return to full health and functioning (green).
Source: National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces: Road to Mental Readiness (R2MR)
CHECK-IN
Self Assessment tools help you identify signs and symptoms in your mental health. They can also help to provide you with an opportunity to see how your coping strategies are working.
Using the anonymous screening tools lets you compare your responses to previously published responses from the general population or other public safety personnel. Your results can help you decide whether you should consider speaking with a healthcare professional for additional assistance.
Self-assessment tools help you look at your mental health or wellness. These tests look for signs or symptoms that can show up in some mental health issues. They can also help you look at feelings or substance use patterns.
SELF CARE
Explore what has worked for you in the past:
Physical activity
Connecting with friends and loved ones
Yoga
Forest bathing
Rest and sleep
Somatic work to calm your central nervous system
Positive Self Talk
Goal Setting
Visualization
Journalling
As part of the Government of Canada’s National Action Plan on Posttraumatic Stress Injuries, PSPNET offers and evaluates internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy, also known as ICBT, tailored explicitly or current and former Public Safety Personnel (PSP), and their spouses or significant others.
Fire Fighter Occupational Awareness Training is a 12-module program designed to enhance frontline knowledge of mental health injuries and reduce the emotional and behavioural impact of a career in public safety.