Family members are often the first to notice changes in the mood and behaviour of their first responder loved one. It can be helpful for families to understand the importance of mental health, how to identify the early signs and symptoms of those who are struggling, and how to access resources to support their first responder loved ones and themselves.

This 22-minute interview with a dispatcher discusses how family members can support a first responder, and how the family unit as a whole also needs support.

In this video, we hear about the occupational stressors that dispatchers face, how this unique work can impact mental health, some of the ways family members can support their first responder loved-one, and tips on self-care from the insights of a first responder in the field.