Heroes Get Help

What are some signs that are indicators of a stress disorder?

Hyper-arousal: increases in heart rate, respiration and blood pressure, psycho-motor agitation, physical tension, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, fear, irritability or anger. Avoidance: avoiding exposure to the trauma, including talking about it, thinking about it, visiting the place where it occurred or seeing people who shared the experience of it.

What kinds of situations may increase a First Responder's risk for developing a stress disorder?

First responders are exposed to highly stressful events in the course of their routine duties.

When should a First Responder seek professional help?

With the support and care of family, friends and peers, many people are able to recover from the effects of a traumatic event. It is difficult to recover in isolation. The ability to accept support and help is essential to healing. People are sometimes able to recover using their own coping skills and support from friends and family.

Where can First Responders look for help in Alberta?

ALBERTA UNION OF PROVINCIAL EMPLOYEES: AUPE members do stressful jobs and sometimes things happen at work that can put our members into crisis situations. Now there is free confidential help available. If you are experiencing intense anxiety or vulnerability due to traumatic or crisis events occurring at work call AUPE's Crisis Support Service at 1-844-744-7026.