Mental Health Support for Correctional Workers in Alberta: Remote and Telehealth Services

The mental well-being of correctional workers is a serious issue in Canada, and it’s getting more attention. In the past, there wasn’t much support for these workers. The support that was available often focused on immediate crises, not on long-term care or preventing problems. Traditional, in-person services had their own set of problems. Many correctional workers felt embarrassed or ashamed to ask for help. Getting access to services, especially in remote parts of Alberta, was difficult. Also, there often weren’t enough resources inside correctional facilities. This has all contributed to the current mental health challenges faced by correctional workers.

Things are changing, especially with the increase in remote and telehealth options. This article explains these options.

Modern Solutions: Remote and Telehealth on the Rise

Several factors have led to the increase in remote mental health services for correctional workers:

1. Changes in Government and Organizational Policies: Governments and organizations now recognize the demanding nature of correctional work. They are providing more resources for mental health therapy for correctional workers, including more funding and specific programs to address these workers’ needs.
2. Technological Advances: Secure video conferencing, mental well-being apps, and online resources are now widely available. These tools allow mental health services to be delivered from a distance, removing geographical barriers.
3. Changes in Clinical Practice: Mental health professionals have adapted their methods for online use. They’ve created guidelines for telehealth, ensuring quality care even when it’s delivered remotely.

Therapy Approaches in the Digital Age

Remote mental health therapy for correctional workers uses proven therapy approaches, modified for online use:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps people change negative thoughts and behaviors. Research shows it works well, and it can be used effectively in telehealth. Correctional workers, who often deal with stressful situations, can use CBT to manage their reactions and become more resilient. For those dealing with sleep issues, CBT-I for Alberta’s first responders is a specific type of CBT.

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is mainly used to treat trauma, a major concern for correctional workers who may witness or experience upsetting events. While traditionally done in person, research is showing how to do this remotely with successful results. This is particularly relevant for PTSD treatment for correctional workers.
• Mindfulness-Based Interventions: These methods help people focus on the present moment and manage their emotions. Mindfulness can be a powerful tool for correctional workers to manage stress, improve focus, and promote overall well-being.

Advantages of Remote Therapy

Remote therapy offers several important advantages over traditional, in-person services:

• Improved Access: Access is much easier. Correctional workers in remote parts of Alberta, or those with difficult schedules, can now get support without traveling long distances or having scheduling conflicts.
• Privacy and Confidentiality: Remote therapy can be done in a more private setting. This can be especially important for those who feel hesitant to seek help due to the stigma around mental health.
• Cost Savings: Costs related to travel, like gas and vehicle maintenance, are eliminated. Correctional workers may also need less time off work, reducing financial stress.
• Effectiveness: Research shows telehealth, for providing mental health care, can be just as effective, and sometimes even more effective, than in-person sessions.

Potential Disadvantages of Remote Therapy

Despite its advantages, remote therapy for correctional workers does have some disadvantages:

• Technology Requirements: A reliable internet connection and a device like a computer, tablet, or smartphone are necessary for remote therapy.
• Privacy Concerns: While steps are taken to protect confidentiality, there is always a potential for privacy breaches in online communication.
• Building a Relationship: Some people may find it harder to develop a strong connection with their therapist when interactions are only online.

Challenges to Implementation

Despite the clear benefits, some things can prevent the widespread use of remote mental health services for correctional workers:

• The Digital Divide: Not all areas, especially rural parts of Canada, have the high-speed internet needed for video conferencing. This is a major consideration for Alberta correctional worker mental health.
• Tech Skills: Correctional workers and mental health providers may have different levels of comfort with technology. Training and support are essential.
• Online Privacy: Ensuring the security and confidentiality of online communications is a top priority. Strong security measures and adherence to privacy rules are critical and is one of the ethical considerations in therapy.
• Rules and Regulations: Different areas may have different rules about providing telehealth services.
• Changing Attitudes: Some correctional workers and administrators may be unsure about remote therapy, questioning its effectiveness. Education and open communication are key to addressing these concerns.

Ethical Guidelines for Remote Care

Providing mental health services remotely requires careful attention to ethical issues:

• Informed Consent: Correctional workers must fully understand remote therapy, including its potential benefits and risks.
• Preventing Data Breaches: Strong measures must be in place to protect sensitive information. This includes secure platforms, encryption, and strict adherence to privacy rules.
• Handling Emergencies: Clear procedures must be in place for handling crises that might occur during remote sessions. This includes knowing how to contact local emergency services.

Different Perspectives

The use of telehealth for correctional worker mental health is still being discussed:

• Suitability: Is remote therapy right for all correctional workers, regardless of their specific mental health needs or preferences?
• Building Relationships Online: Can a strong connection, which is important for effective therapy, be developed through online interactions?

The Role of Leadership

The successful use of telehealth services depends on the support provided by correctional organizations and leadership:

• Providing Resources: Providing staff with adequate training and resources is essential. This includes education on using technology, understanding telehealth rules, and best practices for remote therapy.
• Clear Guidelines: Organizations must establish clear policies and procedures for telehealth services.
• Promoting a Culture of Well-being: Leadership should actively promote a culture that values mental health and encourages staff to seek support. This involves reducing stigma, promoting open communication, and showing a commitment to employee well-being.

Data and Outcomes

Correctional workers are at a higher risk of developing mental health conditions compared to the general population.

• The Problem: Research consistently shows high rates of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse among correctional workers. Many experience emotional shutdown. Depression in correctional workers is higher than average and is a cause for concern.
• Tracking Usage: As remote mental health services become more available, data on their use is being collected. Early trends show increasing use.
• Measuring Success: Early evidence suggests that remote therapy can be effective in improving mental health outcomes for this population.

If you are a correctional worker in Alberta seeking support, Responders First is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your mental well-being.

Don Davis

15+ years of emergency response experience. Passionate about connecting our first responder communities with critical resources. Author of hundreds of articles and guides on First Responders mental health care. When not responding to emergencies, you can find me playing with my dogs, hiking, or enjoying a good book.