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Operational Stress Injury ClinicsNote: The links followed by ( back ) will take you to pages located elsewhere on vac-acc.gc.ca. To return to this page click the 'Back' button on the top of your browser. Ste. Anne Centre - National Centre for Operational Stress Injuries (back) Paul Triquet Clinic (PDF Version) Parkwood Clinic (PDF Version) Deer Lodge Clinic (PDF Version) Operational Stress Injury Clinic Opens in Calgary (back) Table of Contents What is an Operational Stress Injury?An operational stress injury (OSI) is any persistent psychological difficulty resulting from operational duties performed while serving in the Canadian Forces (CF) or as a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). It is used to describe a broad range of problems which include diagnosed medical conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as other conditions that may be less severe, but still interfere with daily functioning. The symptoms and the injuries themselves vary according to the individual and nature of their experience. For Veterans, the injury may occur following combat duties, after serving in a war zone, in peacekeeping missions or following other traumatic or serious events not tied to combat. It is normal to experience some form of distress after being exposed to a traumatic event. Fortunately, help is available for those struggling with an OSI. The earlier help is sought, the better the rate of recovery. What is a Traumatic Event?"Trauma" is different for everyone, but there are a number of events that can cause significant distress. These include, but are not limited to:
What are Common Reactions?Most people experience strong reactions after traumatic events which may include:
Often these reactions resolve themselves or go away soon after the event. However, at times they may continue. What Should I Do if My Symptoms Persist?Seek help as soon as possible if you are experiencing any symptoms of distress which are affecting your ability to work or function socially. National Network of Operational Stress Injury ClinicsVeterans Affairs Canada (VAC) has OSI Clinics to help Veterans, CF members, and eligible RCMP recovering from an OSI. Support is also available for their families. The OSI clinics have teams of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses and clinical social workers, who provide high quality standardized assessment, treatment, prevention and support services. To Seek Help and Access Services
Need to Know More?To learn more about the services and benefits now available through VAC please call toll-free 1-866-522-2122. You can also visit the VAC Web site at www.vac-acc.gc.ca or e-mail us at information@vac-acc.gc.ca |
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