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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.” DO YOU SPEND A LOT OF YOUR DOWNTIME PLAYING VIDEO GAMES? DO YOU USE DISCORD OFTEN TO COMMUNICATE? This is an online community for the adults that are living with PTSD and other OSI's as much as you are and are more likely going to reach out on the DISCORD Server while playing video games ... so here is a place for new frontline protectors to reach out safely!! Indigenous HelpLine Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca VIDEO TESTIMONIALS SUPPORT INITIATIVES we're here when you need us. Providing Free Support for those trained to support us. Our mission is to inspire hope and contribute to the continuous well-being and recovery process of Veterans and Front Line Protectors across Canada. We seek to empower and encourage our target group to strive for recovery through peer and professional support while creating greater public awareness. Opportunities in Private or in a Group No formal diagnosis or referral is required to utilize our services. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of an OSI, we're here to help. Services Contact Crisis/Suicide Hotline 24/7: 1-833-456-4566 Mobile Crisis: call 306-757-0127 Mental Health Crisis: call 811 and ask for the Mental Health line Or Consult https://sk.211.ca/ to find other help lines If you would like an OSI-CAN support group or a Spouse of OSI group in your community, contact Julius Brown at 306-552-3801 or 1-888-495-6068 osicandir@cmhask.com

Metatag: This page shows the organizations we support through advertising and those who support us through articles. 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. Articles & Magazines Magazines Contributed To These publications help to spread the word about OSI-CAN and it's mission! Articles Featuring OSI-CAN 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 exists to describe and explain the advantages of having a Peer Support group. 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 Peer Support Groups OSI-CAN provides Peer Support Groups for our target demographic; Military and Public Safety Personnel. Operational Stress Injuries / Occupational Stress Injuries / Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can occur when a person directly experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. This can also happen with repeated exposure to traumatic situations and details. List of Groups, Meeting Dates & Times, Location, and Contact info. We extend to you an invitation to participate in our support groups. Please reach out to one of the contacts listed below. We also offer virtual meetings, which are included below. Attendance is FREE . Director and SK Provincial Coordinator Questions? Contact us. Julius Brown, OSI-CAN Director CMHA SK, 2702-12th Avenue, Regina, SK S4T 1J2 306-552-3801 cell 1-888-495-6068 toll-free 306-525-5601 ext. 222 Peer Support Groups Regina Meetings on Mondays at 7:00 pm ( Virtual Online Meeting Only at present) Contact: Guy at 306-737-6981 (cell) Email gdelorme@gmail.com Regina Meetings on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm ( Virtual and In-Person meetings available) Knox-Metropolitan United Church, 2340 Victoria Avenue Contact: Ronley at 306-540-7576 (cell) Email Ronley.Arnold@gmail.com Saskatoon Meetings on Mondays at 7:00 pm McClure United Church 4025 Taylor St. East SK S7H 5N5 Contact: Clift at 306-242-0081 (Texting is Best) clifford.erhardt@gmail.com Prince Albert Contact Renee at 306-331-7295 Email: reny.marie@sasktel.net Moose Jaw Contact Ronley at 306-540-7576 (Cell) Virtual Meeting Email: Ronley.Arnold@gmail.com Fort Qu’Appelle Meetings on Mondays at 7:00 p.m. ( Virtual Online Meeting Availa ble ) 120 Broadway Street W Contact: Renee at 306-331-7295 Email: renay.marie@sasktel.net Weyburn Meetings on Thursdays at 7:00 pm Grace United Church 210 3rd Street For more information, contact Tricia at 306-861-2052 or email tkfirstaid@gmail.com Estevan Meetings are held via Zoom at 7 pm on Mondays, ( Virtual) For more information, Contact: Guy 306-525-1553 Call or leave a message or text North Battleford For Meeting Time Call or Text: Elissa at 306- 281-4980 (cell) Nipawin Contact: Mike at (306) 852-9093 Call or Text Email: osican-tis@cmhask.com Melfort Contact: Mike at (306) 852-9093 Call or Text Email: osican-tis@cmhask.com Melville Meetings: Last Thursday of the month 7:00 pm-8:00 pm First United Church, 148 5th Street East, Melville, SK. ... Please use the North door and parking lot. For more information, Contact: Doug at email eMail: tdhanley@sasktel.net Tisdale Meetings are at the Legion facility at the Tisdale Civic Center on the third and last Tuesday of every month. For more information, Contact: Mike at (306) 852-9093 Call or Text Email: osican-tis@cmhask.com La Ronge Contact: Mike at (306) 852-9093 Call or Text Email: osican-tis@cmhask.com Swift Current Contact: Renee at 306-331-7295 Email: renay.marie@sasktel.net Operational Stress Injury/ PTSD Support Initiative “Resources for those who support country and community.” 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.