Bell Let’s Talk Day
Dear Members;
Re: BELL LET’S TALK DAY
There is no question that being a medical dispatcher or ambulance paramedic are among the most stressful jobs in the world. Every day, we manage emergencies against precious time. Our profession requires us to always be at the top of our game, using physical, mental, and emotional resilience. Sometimes, medical emergencies can be chaotic as family members witness events unfold. And sometimes we manage emergencies that impact us forever.
Through it all, we put our emotions secondary to serving the community. But it can take a toll … especially in recent months as we face physical, emotional and psychological exhaustion responding to two health crises – the global pandemic and the overdose epidemic.
Through these crises, we are dealing with unprecedented call volumes and staffing shortages that require our team to do significant overtime to cover shifts, and frequently work their entire shift going to back-to-back emergencies without a break or downtime, only to do it all over again.
Our profession is experiencing a high rate of stress, burnout and medical leave as our coping skills are being tested.
As president of the Ambulance Paramedics & Dispatchers of BC, I know it is critical to support our members every day. I’m taking the opportunity provided by Bell Let’s Talk Day to encourage our members to reach out for help if they need it any time, day or night.
Our job is to help people every day and sometimes asking for help can be difficult. Please reach out to a colleague, reach out to a union rep, reach out to someone you know or trust. You Peer CISM Team is available 24/hours a day and is ready to listen and connect you with a mental health professional. We are here to help you.
Call 1 (855) 969-4321
From my heart, I thank each of our team members for everything they do every day in their service to the community and our profession. Please take care of yourself.
#LetsTalk #BellLetsTalk #shareitdontwearit #youarenotalone #itsokaytonotbeok
On behalf of the Provincial Executive Board,
TC/sd/MoveUp