Merritt Fire Rescue lends voice to support mental health initiatives

In a press release the APBC, say that while a majority of the deaths can be attributed to illness or accidents, many members died by suicide that is very likely connected to the stressors of their jobs.

“We are witnessing unprecedented levels of mental health and wellness claims amongst our members, and now, a significant and heartbreaking increase in suicides,” says Jason Jackson, President of the Ambulance, Paramedics of BC.  “It’s clear to all of us that we are desperately needing help and more importantly, tangible solutions.”

Recent reports paint a stark picture: over 30 percent of paramedics and dispatchers are either off work battling mental health challenges or are  continuing to work while receiving treatment.

“These numbers are staggering,” Jackson emphasizes. “We are deeply concerned that these figures are lagging indicators of the extreme workload, chronic understaffing, and an increase in call volumes our members face daily. From the pandemic to the never-ending opioid crisis, and even the devastating heat dome, on top of our already busy regular calls, our members simply never get a break.”

Last year, paramedics responded to nearly 1,000,000 calls for service across British Columbia and those numbers continue to climb.

This week, Merritt Fire Rescue posted on their social media platform that they stand solidarity with British Columbia’s paramedics and dispatchers as they navigate an escalating mental health crisis amongst their ranks.

The post states that  “the demands of their work are taking a heavy toll, with many now on leave or undergoing treatment for job‑related stress. This situation makes it clear that more robust mental health services, stronger staffing levels, and sustainable workloads are essential. It’s up to all of us to ensure all frontline responders receive the care and resources they need to continue safeguarding our communities.”