The University of Regina has received its largest, one-time funding contribution in its history which will be used to fund five projects directed to mental health needs for some of those most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The funding is awarded through the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment from the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and Associate Minister of Health says, “With today’s investment, our government is helping create new tools to support those most at risk of PTSD and encourage their healing process, all while reducing stigma and removing barriers to care.” 

Over the last two years, frontline workers like police and medical staff have been put at greater risk of PTSD from what they’ve endured through the pandemic. The announcement was made Monday which is designated as PTSD or Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day.

The following projects will be led by University of Regina and involve multiple partners from across Canada and include: $9 million for the expansion and evaluation of the Before Operational Stress Program; $2.8 million will go to the Canadian Institutes for Pandemic Health Education and Response; $2.1 million for prevention resources and supports for public safety personnel families; $3.7 million to advance peer support programming to address PTSD and trauma among Canadian Public Safety Personnel and Veterans; and $2.1 million for a training and development program for public safety personnel.