Today, Fortem Australia launched its pilot mental health program for the national security community of Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne at the Emergency Services Agency in Fairbairn, Canberra.
This pilot program is funded by the Commonwealth Government as part of the package of mental health initiatives and support services for police and security personnel. Fortem will expand into emergency services and first responder communities as funding permits.
“Law enforcement, national security and first responder operations are conducted 24hours/day, 365 days/year. The work can include significant exposure to trauma, potential cumulative exposure, and are often high demand and high tempo. This type of pressure places enormous strain on individuals but also on social relationships and particularly family.
Dr Katrina Sanders, Chief Medical Officer, Australian Federal Police
In fact the evidence supports that a significant source of stress includes not enough time to spend with family and friends. We know that high levels of social support are linked with higher levels of resilience and wellbeing. And we know that strong social connections have a positive impact on psychological health. And this is why I’m excited about Fortem Australia. “