First Responder Peer Support

First responders experience situations that most people never will. The work can be meaningful, rewarding, and deeply challenging. Over time, repeated exposure to trauma, stress, and high-pressure environments can impact your mental health, relationships, and well-being.

Lifewise’s First Responders Peer Support Program provides free, confidential peer support for first responders across Newfoundland and Labrador. Support is provided by Lifewise-trained Peer Supporters who have worked as first responders themselves and bring personal lived experience with mental health, substance use health, and/or addiction challenges.

Whether you’re looking for a one-on-one conversation, a support group, or simply someone who understands the realities of the job, we’re here to listen. There is no judgment, no pressure, and no need to explain your experiences to someone who doesn’t understand. Your privacy matters. Support is confidential, and you can access our services without providing your occupation or even your name.

Support is available virtually, by phone, and in person.

No referral or diagnosis is required. Support is confidential and available whenever you’re ready.

You may choose to reach out if you’re feeling overwhelmed, carrying the weight of critical incidents or traumatic events, experiencing stress or burnout, navigating mental health or substance use health challenges, or simply looking to connect with someone who understands the realities of the job. You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from peer support.

Connecting with support is simple.

Choose the type of support that best fits your needs. Register for a support group through the calendar, submit an online support request for one-on-one peer support, or call the Lifewise Warmline and leave a message requesting First Responder Peer Support. A Lifewise-trained Peer Supporter will connect with you to discuss next steps.

Connect with others who understand the unique realities of first responder work.

• Shared lived experience
• Meaningful discussion
• Virtual and in-person options

Flexible conversations focused on your individual experiences and goals.

• Led by trained peer supporters with first responder experience
• Available virtually or in person
• Confidential and independent

Our Peer Supporters have served as first responders themselves and understand the realities of the work. Alongside their professional experience, each Peer Supporter brings personal lived experience with mental health, substance use health, and/or addiction challenges.

They aren’t there to provide therapy or clinical treatment. They’re trained Peer Supporters who understand the unique pressures of first responder work and provide compassionate, confidential support rooted in shared experience.

Our Peer Supporters come from backgrounds including:

• Paramedicine
• Policing
• Military service
• Funeral services
• Rural and urban emergency response

Whether you’re processing a difficult call, managing cumulative stress, or simply looking for someone who understands the job, you’ll connect with someone who has walked a similar path.

The work is meaningful. The challenges are real. You don’t have to carry them alone.

Whether you’re looking for one-on-one peer support or a support group, we’re here when you’re ready.

Questions? Contact Bonnie at brotchford@lifewisenl.ca.