Grant: Operating Grant: College and Community Innovation Social Innovation Fund

Saskatchewan Polytechnic (Sask Polytech) researchers have partnered with police and paramedic agencies across Canada to address the pressing mental health crisis faced by frontline public safety personnel (PSP). These individuals experience significantly higher rates of mental illness and suicide due to the operational and organizational stressors inherent in their roles. The THRIVE project (Transforming Health Realities through Interactive Virtual Engagement) aims to leverage innovative virtual reality (VR) technology to develop and deliver immersive mental health programming tailored specifically to PSP. This initiative seeks to improve access and engagement in proactive mental health interventions, ultimately reducing mental injury and promoting mental resilience among PSP. The project's social innovation lies in its utilization of VR technology to enhance access to and engagement in proactive mental health interventions for frontline protectors. By collaborating with stakeholders, conducting research, and implementing evidence-based practices, the project aims to create lasting positive social and health outcomes that benefit both PSP and the broader communities they serve. The research objectives of the THRIVE project include: - Identify barriers to implementing innovative, preventative, and proactive interventions within public safety organizations. - Develop and trial customized VR interventions tailored to the mental health needs of PSP. - Evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of the developed interventions. - Investigate the user experience and acceptance of VR interventions among PSP. Overall, the THRIVE project seeks to address the urgent need for proactive mental health support for PSP through the innovative application of VR technology, with the ultimate goal of improving mental well-being and resilience within this critical workforce.