Search Results

TOOLS & SUPPORT: Peer support plays a vital role in helping family and friends of Veterans and Public Safety Personnel/First Responders with PTSD cope with the emotional, mental, and logistical challenges they face. By engaging with others who are going through similar experiences, caregivers can gain a sense of validation and understanding that reduces feelings of isolation. Peer support provides an opportunity for individuals to share strategies, offer emotional comfort, and foster a sense of community. Research shows that support groups, both in-person and online, can be essential in helping individuals understand the complexities of PTSD and reduce stress and anxiety by giving them the tools to better navigate difficult situations (Sullivan & Pidcock, 2014). It can also provide an avenue for learning coping mechanisms, which can prevent burnout and ensure better mental health for the supporters themselves. For families and friends, peer support also offers an outlet to express concerns, frustrations, and fears, knowing they are supported by others who truly understand their experience. This shared empathy strengthens relationships, while also encouraging self-care, a crucial element for those supporting loved ones with PTSD. A study by Galovski & Lyons (2004) found that providing mutual support in these settings helps reduce the emotional burden on caregivers, enhancing their ability to maintain healthy relationships with those they care about. Moreover, peer support fosters resilience, helping families develop practical tools for supporting their loved ones effectively, while reducing the risk of secondary trauma and mental health issues that can arise from long-term caregiving. References: Galovski, T. E., & Lyons, J. A. (2004). Psychological well-being and distress in partners of veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Traumatic Stress , 17(1), 29-35. Sullivan, J., & Pidcock, S. (2014). Peer support for family members of individuals with PTSD: A qualitative study. Journal of Traumatic Stress , 27(2), 182-189. *** OSI-CAN provides Family and Friends Peer Support Thursday Nights at 7PM. For more information and to sign up, contact the Facilitator via Facebook messenger at https://www.facebook.com/share/18JS6Qsv2K/

There was a time when I thought I might never smile again. The weight of my struggles had become so heavy that even moments of joy felt distant and unattainable. My parents often told me they hadn’t seen a genuine smile from me in years. That all changed the day Winston entered my life. Winston isn’t just a service dog—he’s a lifeline, a guardian, and my greatest source of unconditional love. From the moment he arrived, I couldn’t stop smiling. He doesn’t judge me or expect me to explain myself. Whether I’m battling overwhelming emotions or just having a tough day, his big soft nose nudge, gentle paw, and warm, accepting eyes remind me that I am never alone. A New Alarm Clock: Facing the Day with Courage For so long, mornings were the hardest part of my day. I dreaded getting out of bed, feeling like the weight of the world would crush me if I tried to face it. But Winston changed that. He’s an alarm clock I can’t ignore—playfully seeking me out under my pillow, coaxing me out of hiding, and giving me the strength to face whatever the day has in store. These days, I wake up laughing at his goofy antics and feel a spark of energy to take on the world with him by my side. A Brave Companion Against My Fears Living with anxiety can make every moment feel like a potential minefield, with triggers lurking where you least expect them. But Winston is brave enough for both of us. He stands guard when my fears creep in, guiding me to safety with gentle nudges when I feel frozen with anxiety. His presence reassures me that I’m protected, even in the most uncertain situations. Finding Rest in the Darkest Hours For years, sleep was a battle I often lost. Nightmares haunted my nights, making rest impossible. But Winston has changed even that. When I’m trapped in a bad dream, he wakes me gently and stays by my side, offering comfort until I can fall back to sleep. His unwavering companionship has eased my fear of the night, giving me a peace I never thought possible. Living Again: One Moment at a Time Winston has done more than help me manage my fears—he’s given me my life back. I laugh out loud now, something I thought I’d forgotten how to do. His silly antics and playful nature remind me to live in the moment, to focus on the joy of now rather than the pain of the past. Most importantly, Winston has given me hope for the future. I no longer feel trapped, just waiting for life to be over. With him by my side, I feel a renewed sense of purpose and happiness. I’m excited about what lies ahead because I know we’ll face it together. Thank You, OSI-CAN None of this would have been possible without OSI-CAN . You’ve given me the opportunity to not just survive but truly live again. Winston has brought light and laughter back into my life, and for that, I will be forever grateful. To anyone out there struggling: you are not alone. Help is available, and sometimes, it comes with a wagging tail, a goofy grin, and a heart full of unconditional love. – Sofia, Former Paramedic DONATE NOW ...

a.       Discussing mental health can be difficult, but when starting a conversation with a co-worker, it's important to approach it with openness and without judgment. Keep the following in mind: b.       Be available and approachable for mental health discussions c.       Listen attentively without interrupting d.       Use open-ended questions to encourage your co-worker to express their feelings Be mindful of your body language, as it can communicate a lot without words

Metatag: We at OSI-CAN do not see PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as a Disorder, we see it as an Injury you can recover from. If you are suffering from the symptoms of an Occupational Stress Injury or Operational Stress Injury, then a PTSD or PTSI diagnosis is not required to get our help.” If there is no support group from the list below available near you, contact the provincial coordinator, Julius Brown Toll Free: 1-888-495-6068 , or Cell 306-552-3801 .This is the best means of communication, or email osi_ptsdcoord@cmhask.com . Regina: contact Leigh at 306-726-5881 or email l.bishop@sasktel.net ; or James at 693-999-2112 or email cdnjames@gmail.com Saskatoon: contact Mark at 306-280-9372 (call or text) or email stiglitzmark@gmail.com Prince Albert: for more information please contact 306-961-8231 La Ronge: contact Jack at 306-519-2556 or email jackrennie@hotmail.com Weyburn: contact Tricia at 306-861-2052 (call or text) Moose Jaw: contact Jeremie at 306-681-3987 or email mygemtree@gmail.com . North Battleford: contact Byron at 306-480-2778 (cell) Estevan: contact Frosty at 306-421-7772 (call or text) Tisdale: contact Chris at 306-873-7513 (call or text) Swift Current: contact Renee at 306-331-7295 (call or text) Fort Qu'Appelle: contact Renee at 306-331-7295 (call or text) If Your local area is a long drive to the meeting, feel free to call Julius Brown at 1-888-495-6068 ... We can find an option or help you form and fund a new group!! We are aware that Tisdale is a long drive for their area, it was chosen for the central location and available group leader. Community Support Groups Emergency Contact Numbers Support When You Need It. We pride ourselves in confidentiality, but please do not leave any information on the site that may be Private. We will be in touch. First Name Last Name Email Address Phone Number Comments Submit Thanks for contacting.

Metatag: This page describes the basis of providing support to the family as a whole while one is dealing with an OSI. We at OSI-CAN do not see PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as a Disorder, we see it as an Injury you can recover from. If you are suffering from the symptoms of an Occupational Stress Injury or Operational Stress Injury, then a PTSD or PTSI diagnosis is not required to get our help FAMILY & FRIENDS OF OSI Family & Friends of OSI OSI-CAN provides peer groups that aid in the recovery and resiliency of the family as a whole. At times, adult family and friends of those affected by Operational Stress Injuries (OSIs) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) often may be seeking or require connections and resources of their own. Group meetings are currently available via Zoom ... If you need help or to receive a Zoom meeting invite, Email: osicanfamily@cmhask.com or contact Rebecca @ (306) 502-1290, texting works best. OSI/PTSI can occur when a person directly experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. It can also happen with repeated exposure to traumatic events and details as with OSICAN’s target group; military, first responders, 911 dispatchers, corrections, tow truck drivers, all public safety personnel. Being the caregiver or support for someone with OSI sometimes means facing battles of your own. Feelings of isolation, lack of support or understanding are common traits often shared among family members. “The spouse or partner of the person with OSI (Operational Stress Injury) is usually the first one to notice a difference in their behaviour or changes in attitude. It is important for them to understand what their loved one is going through, of course, but the most important is for them to get the support they need. This has been a huge missing piece so far. We help give the tools necessary for the self-care they need while being of assistance in the recovery of their loved ones with OSI.” – Julius Brown, Provincial Director for OSI-CAN We offer understanding, hope, knowledge, strength and encouragement . OSI-CAN Target Demographic The target demographic of OSI-CAN are but are not limited to: former and serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Allied Armed Forces, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Frontline Protectors --- Municipal Police Services, CN Police Services, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Protection Services, Wildland Firefighters, Hospital Trauma personnel, Nurses, Healthcare Workers, Crown Prosecutors, Social Workers, Animal Control Officers, Coroners, Indigenous Emergency Management, Victim Services Personnel, Emergency Communications Specialist, Crisis Management Workers (such as Mobile Crisis, etc), Corrections Officers, Youth Workers, Youth Corrections Workers, “Volunteer” First Responders, Conservation Officers, Tow Truck drivers, and private sector First Responders. We also provide supports to the spouses and significant others of those exposed to such trauma. This demographic was chosen due to the commonality of experiences they share through the service they provide to the country and community. We have a special interest and support volunteer first responders as they may not have proper access to support.

Metatag: This page provides information on OSI-CAN's policies. We at OSI-CAN do not see PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as a Disorder, we see it as an Injury you can recover from. If you are suffering from the symptoms of an Occupational Stress Injury or Operational Stress Injury, then a PTSD or PTSI diagnosis is not required to get our help Legal & Privacy Use of this web site The owner of this web site is not responsible in any manner for direct, indirect, special or consequential damages, however caused, arising out of your use of this web site. Links to other web sites from this web site are provided for convenience only. No endorsement of any third party web site, services or information is expressed or implied by any information, material or content referred to or included on, or linked from or to this web site. Information Information provided on this web site is believed to be accurate and reliable when placed on this site, but we cannot guarantee it is accurate or complete or current at all times. Information on this site is for informational purposes only. We endeavor to keep the information posted on this site current. However, this information is subject to change and this web site may not immediately reflect such changes. Trademarks and copyrights Certain names, words, titles, phrases, logos, icons, graphics or designs in the pages of this web site may constitute trade names, registered or unregistered trade-marks or service marks of organizations or of third parties. All information on this web site is protected under the copyright laws of Canada. Users of this web site are entitled to copy any information for their own personal use but may not republish or reproduce any such information in any manner without the prior consent of the web site owner. Privacy When you visit this web site, the web site owner may obtain some limited information about you, including your IP address, the name of your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and information concerning your browser and operating system. The extent of personal identification depends, in a large part, on the naming standards that are followed by your ISP. You may want to check with them to inquire about their policies and practices in this regard. When you voluntarily send us electronic mail or complete an electronic form that includes identifying information about you, we will keep a record of this information so that we can respond to you. Collected personal information will only be used to fulfill the purpose for which it was originally collected or for a use consistent with that purpose. This information will not be disclosed to other public bodies or individuals except as authorized by law. The web site owner will keep the information only for the length of time necessary to fulfill the purpose(s) for which it was collected. This website may contain links to other web sites. The web site owner is not responsible for the privacy practices of such web sites. Function of web site This web site is intended to provide the public with information about programs, events and services provided by the web site owner and other associated persons or organizations. While they welcome suggestions and submissions, only information of the nature for which the web site was designed will be considered. The web site owner reserves the right to edit and/or reject submissions of information for this web site. Credits This web site was designed and built by Mister Social Marketing in Leduc, AB Canada. OSI-CAN Target Demographic The target demographic of OSI-CAN are but are not limited to: former and serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Allied Armed Forces, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Frontline Protectors --- Municipal Police Services, CN Police Services, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Protection Services, Wildland Firefighters, Hospital Trauma personnel, Nurses, Healthcare Workers, Crown Prosecutors, Social Workers, Animal Control Officers, Coroners, Indigenous Emergency Management, Victim Services Personnel, Emergency Communications Specialist, Crisis Management Workers (such as Mobile Crisis, etc), Corrections Officers, “Volunteer” First Responders, Conservation Officers, Tow Truck drivers, and private sector First Responders. We also provide supports to the spouses and significant others of those exposed to such trauma. This demographic was chosen due to the commonality of experiences they share through the service they provide to the country and community. We have a special interest and support volunteer first responders as they may not have proper access to support.