Lethbridge Police Service Hosts Workshop for First Responder Families

A workshop designed to support the families of first responders took place on March 7, 2024, organized by the Lethbridge Police Service in collaboration with the Diversified Rehabilitation Group. The event, titled “Getting Better Together,” catered specifically to the spouses and family members of police officers, firefighters, and paramedics, acknowledging the unique challenges these families face.

First responder families often deal with significant stress due to the operational demands placed on their loved ones. The workshop aimed to address issues such as anxiety and depression, which can impact relationships and overall family dynamics. Participants engaged in discussions focused on developing healthy coping strategies and enhancing communication within their families.

Derek Sienko, Chief Mental Health Officer at Diversified Rehabilitation Group, highlighted the pressing need for such initiatives. He stated, “About 67 percent of first responder marriages collapse. That’s a huge number, and my mission here today as we go across the country is to challenge that number and to create a space where first responder couples will keep it together.” Sienko emphasized the importance of strong family foundations for the well-being of both first responders and their communities.

The workshop also featured insights from Shahin Mehdizadeh, Chief of the Lethbridge Police Service. He remarked, “If they’re whole at home and they have a good relationship, they can continue to serve the community and, more importantly, they can continue to move on with their retirement and have a great life after the job that they do today.” This perspective reinforces the belief that personal well-being directly influences professional effectiveness.

Participants received various tools and resources aimed at fostering resilience and maintaining mental wellness within their families. By creating a supportive environment, the workshop aimed to mitigate the pressures associated with being a first responder and to promote healthier family relationships.

The “Getting Better Together” workshop marks a proactive step towards addressing the mental health needs of first responder families. By acknowledging their sacrifices and providing them with necessary coping strategies, the initiative seeks to strengthen the emotional well-being of those who serve in high-stress roles, ultimately benefiting the wider community.