Mental Health Related Statistics & Information of Public Safety Personnel
Public Safety Personnel (PSP) are frequently exposed to potentially traumatic events which increase their risk of developing mental health challenges. The extra strain placed on them during the pandemic has only intensified their risk for mental health consequences.
Repeated exposure to stressful events contributes to high rates of mental illness in these professions.
Those with military background who go on to work as first responders are even more likely to develop mental illness.
First responders from all fields are twice as likely to experience PTSD than other Canadians. (Centre for Suicide Prevention)
Paramedics are at an even higher risk, with 22% developing PTSD in their lifetimes and suicide rates five times higher than the national average of 11.3 per 100,000 people. (Canadian Centre for Suicide Prevention, Statistics Canada)
Firefighters are exposed to significant trauma through their work and are at a high risk of developing mental illness. Their suicide rate is 30% higher than that of the general population. (Canadian Mental Health Association)
In a recent study Ontario correctional workers reported some of the highest rates of suicidal thoughts, planning and attempts among public safety personnel, with 54.6% of one or more mental disorder. (Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment)
44% of Canadian public safety professionals screened positive for one or more mental health disorders vs. the diagnostics rate for the general population of 10%. (Canadian Journal of Psychiatry)
