The Filing Cabinet

While researching Post Traumatic Growth we came across an article explaining how our brain is a filing cabinet. Over the years some of us been able to file experiences in an appropriate place. Not a simple process but worthwhile if a person can accomplish it.

In the metaphor, the mind is a filing cabinet, incidents of trauma are unorganized and float around and surface at the most inopportune times. It has been suggested a person can use a process of Dealing, Feeling, Healing, and Sealing. The goal is to move towards Post Traumatic Growth and not become overpowered by our emotions. That is why it is so important to understand we are not alone, and help is available. The help comes in many forms; Clinical without question, and Peer Support as an additional extension in the form of support.

“It’s not what we have in life, but who we have in our life that matters”

(Author Unknown)

Our mission is to inspire hope and contribute to the continued well-being and recovery process of Veterans and Front Line Protectors across Canada.

We seek to empower and encourage them to strive for recovery through peer and professional support while creating greater public awareness.

We at OSI-CAN do not see PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as a Disorder, we see it as an Injury you can recover from. If you are suffering from the symptoms of an Occupational or Operational Stress Injury, then a PTSD or PTSI diagnosis is not required to get our help.

The target demographic of OSI-CAN are but are not limited to:

Former and serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Allied Armed Forces, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Frontline Protectors --- which include Municipal Police Services, CN Police Services, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Protection Services, Wildland Firefighters, Hospital Trauma personnel, Nurses, Healthcare Workers, Social Workers, Animal Control Officers, Coroners, Indigenous Emergency Management, Victim Services Personnel, Emergency Communications Specialist, Corrections Officers, “Volunteer” First Responders, Conservation Officers, Aboriginal Emergency Services personnel, Tow Truck drivers who clean up accident scenes and their spouses/partners. This demographic was chosen due to the commonality of experiences they share through the service they provide to the country and community. We have a special interest and support volunteer first responders as they are not eligible for programs such as Workers' Compensation.