Winnipegs first responders need more mental health support, destigmatization: advocates – Winnipeg [Video]

Mental health supports for Winnipeg’s first responders have improved, but the president of the union representing those workers says there’s still a long way to go.

Tom Bilous of the United Firefighters Union told 680 CJOB’s The Start that while mental health issues are becoming destigmatized, there’s more work to be done. He says a proactive approach is needed — rather than waiting for someone who is struggling to reach out for help.

“We’re getting better at recognizing and heeding things… that at one time would be seen as just fleeting banter, maybe now should be heeded as a warning sign,” he said.

“This guy said he’s been having some issues, maybe we should get him to talk to somebody.”

Bilous said he would even go as far as requiring members to do a mandatory session with a counsellor once a year, to take away any stigma around reaching out for help.

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