TORONTO – Toronto Ombudsman Fiona Crean says more needs to be done to support the city’s paramedics and dispatchers suffering from emotional and psychological stress.
A report released Friday offers 26 recommendations including a review of the department’s psychological health and wellness plan, provide training on suicide prevention and intervention strategies, and considering an off-site location where employees can meet with the psychologist without fear of recognition.
“The human suffering and trauma they deal with every day exact a heavy toll on our paramedics and dispatchers,” says Crean.
“They report a higher than average incidence of operational stress injuries such as depression, anxiety, alcohol and drug dependency, and post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD.”
READ MORE: ‘They’re human too:’ Paramedics suffer PTSD after crash that killed kids, grandfather
The Toronto Paramedic Services already have an in-house psychologist but Crean said it must be more coordinated in its approach.
The ombudsman said operational stress injuries (OSI) are triggered by on-the-job activities such as anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug dependency.
Earlier this year, a report released by the city’s paramedics union also indicated there is a huge morale problem with its members.
The blame is being pointed at continued frustration with management, increased workloads and other job stressors.
READ MORE: Is there enough mental health support for first responders?
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