First responders in Nova Scotia have been offered assistance in the wake of the shooting rampage last weekend.
The First Responders Assist service will offer short-term counselling and support services for first responders and their families affected by the killings of 22 people in Colchester County and the Municipality of East Hants.
The program is a collaboration of the Nova Scotia Health Authority’s mental health and addiction program and the Nova Scotia operational stress injury clinic, the NSHA said in a news release Thursday.
Operational stress injury is any persistent psychological difficulty resulting from operational or service-related duties, the release said.
First responders needing help can call the toll-free line 1-888-429-8167, which is staffed 24/7 by mental health professionals.
When calling, first responders and their family members should indicate they have been affected by the tragedy, the release said.
“The mental healthcare provider will provide immediate assistance and connect the first responder or their family member with counselling and supportive services, including follow up treatment if needed.
“NSHA's mental health team is here to connect using telephone and video support. For someone whose needs require to be seen in-person, an appointment will be arranged, following public health pandemic protocols to keep everyone safe.”
Mental health and addictions support is available for the general public at 1-888-429-8167.
If you would like to self-refer to the health authority’s community mental health and addictions clinics, withdrawal management services, or opioid replacement and treatment program, call (toll-free) 1-855-922-1122, weekdays 8:30 to 4:30. This line has voicemail only evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays. Access to supports are also available through online mental health services at https://novascotia.ca/mental-health/.
