Psychologists Join EMO Team

When a major emergency strikes, the damage can be much deeper than what the eye sees. The destruction caused by natural disasters can bring on stress and trauma that need as much attention as any physical injury.

To ensure help is available when needed, the Association of Psychologists of Nova Scotia (APNS) has offered its services to the Emergency Measures Organization (EMO).

The two groups have signed a memorandum of understanding that provides for a rapid response of brief psychological counselling services in a major emergency. The association has established a network of its members throughout the province who have volunteered to provide free psychological assistance.

In the event of a major emergency, which involves so many people that local services are overwhelmed, APNS and EMO will arrange for psychologists to provide group debriefings and other temporary services. The agreement will allow emergency managers throughout Nova Scotia to have ready access to the appropriate support.

"The recent experiences in Quebec and Manitoba have shown that there has to be more to emergency response than taking care of the physical needs of victims," said Wayne Adams, Minister responsible for the Emergency Measures Act. "We have to help ease the tremendous emotional toll extracted by such calamities."

"We believe that in a disaster, everyone should help in the best way he or she can," said Dr. Douglas Symons of APNS. "As psychologists, this is through using our professional skills to help people cope."

Said Mr. Adams: "We often see communities come together during stressful times. I think that the offer of help from the Association of Psychologists of Nova Scotia is in keeping with the highest compassionate standards of the profession."