REGINA - The University of Regina has teamed up with WorkSafe Saskatchewan to develop a mental health monitoring system.
The monitoring system, which will be made available to agencies across Saskatchewan, in April, will support the mental health and wellness of first responders and other public safety personnel.
Many first responders are at risk of exposure to traumatic events, which can cause substantial harm.
"Mental health support strategies must shift toward tools, policies and practices that mitigate the impacts of traumatic exposures and other stressors on public safety personnel’s mental health," said Dr. R. Nicholas Carleton, professor of psychology and lead researcher of the University of Regina’s psychological lab.
Carleton noted that the tools and resources being offered will help safeguard and improve the mental health of these workers.
The monitoring system works by providing public safety personnel with near real-time mental health insights.
"Responses consistent with one or more mental health disorders will be flagged for participants, and recommendations for accessing additional mental health supports will be provided," stated the media release.
With this, employers can monitor mental health with real-time support available.
"This can lead to immediate action to mitigate the effect of traumatic exposures and manage occupational stress and mental health challenges."
