Exploration of the role of organizational and personal factors in the mental health of Edmundston firefighters.

Laurence Sonier

Impact

  • This study advanced understanding of the organizational and personal factors that influence mental health resource use among firefighters.

  • The findings underscore the importance of fostering open communication, supportive workplace relationships and positive attitudes toward mental health to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking.

  • Recommendations from the study will support the development of healthier organizational cultures and improved access to mental health resources, with the potential to strengthen psychological well-being among firefighters.

  • The project also contributes to a larger provincial initiative aimed at improving firefighter mental health across New Brunswick.

“This research internship enabled me not only to explore personal and organizational factors—and their impact on firefighters' resource utilization and mental health—but also to develop expertise in conducting a qualitative study, specifically by carrying out interviews and transcriptions, coordinating a research team to perform thematic analysis, and writing a research report. Furthermore, the internship provided an opportunity to collaborate with a partner organization: the fire department.”

— Laurence Sonier

  • New Brunswick

  • Studentship

  • University of Moncton

  • Emergency Services, City of Edmundston

  • Mitacs, iA Financial Group

  • 2025-2026

  • Workplace Mental Health

  • People at Work, Firefighters

About the Project

This qualitative study explored how personal and organizational factors influence the mental health of firefighters in northern New Brunswick and their use of mental health resources. Through interviews with eight firefighters, the research examined the role of stigma, workplace culture and interpersonal relationships in shaping attitudes toward mental health and help-seeking. Findings will inform recommendations to foster healthier organizational environments and improve access to mental health supports for firefighters.

Methodology

Interviews were conducted with 8 firefighters to better understand the factors influencing their mental health and their use of mental health resources. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed to identify key themes and formulate recommendations.

Findings

  • Open discussions about mental health, supported by positive peer relationships and favourable social attitudes, encourage the use of mental health resources.

  • A supportive organizational culture plays an important role in improving perceptions of mental health and reducing barriers to seeking help.

  • Interviews with eight firefighters identified practical opportunities to promote psychological well-being and strengthen workplace support.

  • The findings contribute to a broader provincial study examining firefighter mental health across multiple fire departments in New Brunswick.

Project Scaling

No plans have been made to expand the work beyond New Brunswick. The purpose of the project was to ensure thorough community-level for the firefighting community.

Resources Created

  • A diagnostic report integrating the qualitative and quantitative findings is being finalized and will be presented to the partner organization to guide future mental health initiatives.

  • A scientific manuscript is currently being prepared for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.

  • The findings will contribute to a broader provincial research project involving multiple fire departments across New Brunswick.