Firefighters are called upon to respond to medical emergencies, intervene in accidents, perform technical rescues (e.g., at height, in confined spaces, by rope, etc.), conduct investigations following fires, etc. Moreover, firefighters in the Edmundston Fire Department identify post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a significant problem. They are at risk of developing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder such as flashbacks or nightmares, as well as anxiety or depression.

Thus, this study aims to explore the role of organizational culture (an organizational factor) and stigma (a personal factor) that play a role in mental health (e.g., post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, burnout) and access to care among Edmundston firefighters. The anticipated social benefits are the identification of intervention levers (organizational and personal) that would promote psychological health and the use of mental health care services. Consequently, improved mental health among firefighters should contribute to more efficient fire department operations and ensure higher-quality services for the public.

This project is co-funded in partnership with Mitacs and iA Financial Group.