Alex Milonas, a firefighter, started his career without mental health training, focusing solely on physical safety. He highlighted the lack of preparation for handling traumatic incidents, leading to sleep loss and stress management challenges after five years on the job. Milonas emphasized the difficulty in discussing mental health compared to physical injuries.
River Valley Resilience Retreat representatives visited the fire hall, providing crucial support for Milonas. The non-profit organization offers peer support for public safety workers dealing with operational stress injuries and PTSD. Peer group sessions offer a platform for sharing experiences and accessing treatment options and holistic practices.
Co-founder Jeff Reeder emphasized the organization’s support for various public safety personnel, including frontline responders, police, EMS, and healthcare workers. The increasing call volumes for first responders over the years have raised concerns about operational stress issues.
Health Canada statistics show a high prevalence of PTSD among first responders, with RVRR reporting a significant increase in client interactions over the years. The retreat, located in Prince Albert, aims to provide a safe haven for individuals experiencing stress and trauma. Retired police officer Warren Nagy shared his positive experiences with peer counseling in managing PTSD symptoms.
RVRR conducts in-person peer support meetings and offers online resources for first responders seeking help. The organization’s commitment to supporting those in need of mental health assistance continues to make a difference in the lives of public safety workers and veterans.