Resilient Minds Story
Resilient Minds began in 2015 as a partnership between Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services (VFRS) and the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) to address the impacts of occupational stress and trauma that firefighters face every day. It all started when VFRS Captain, Steve Fraser, recognized that his crew members were struggling with the impacts of the traumatic calls they attended. Steve approached CMHA to create a program that would address the unique needs of firefighters. From there, an idea was borne for an effective and appropriate preparedness program to help keep firefighters safe, healthy and knowledgeable about what to expect when exposed to a traumatic event. The program is Resilient Minds.
Based on the success and impact of Building the Psychological Strength of Firefighters Program, and with input from other first responders and frontline workers, the program has now expanded into other areas to address the psychological distress experienced by members of these groups. This includes wildland firefighters, Indigenous firefighters, emergency communications operators, police officers and other law enforcement personnel, and frontline workers.