Episode 17: First Responders & Mental Health

Episode 17: First Responders & Mental Health

Author: CMHA Kelowna and Jessica Samuels October 9, 2025 Duration: 32:08

Being a first responder means running toward the situations most of us run away from. But that comes with an emotional and mental toll. In this episode, Jessica speaks with Kelowna Fire Captain David McCarthy, who shares what it’s like to experience trauma on the job and how the fire department is working to ensure firefighters get the support they need.


David discusses the evolution of Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) within the Kelowna Fire Department, the importance of peer support and early intervention, and how breaking the stigma around mental health has changed the culture for first responders. He also touches on new partnerships with CMHA Kelowna that are helping connect firefighters and their families to mental health resources and education.


Key Takeaways:

  • Mental health support for first responders has come a long way — but it’s still evolving.
  • Peer support and connection among crews can make all the difference after a traumatic call.
  • Families play a crucial role in helping first responders find balance and healing.

Listen now to learn how Kelowna’s firefighters are building a healthier, more open approach to mental wellness — for themselves, their families, and their community.


A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health is presented by Beem Credit Union, proud to support honest conversations that help build stronger, healthier communities.


Resources
https://bcfirstrespondersmentalhealth.com/

https://bcfirstrespondersmentalhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Recommended-Practices-for-Supporting-Mental-Health-in-First-Responders-170615.pdf

https://www.bcpffa.net/mental-health-resources
Mental Health Support Services | Canadian Mental Health Association Kelowna


Hosted by Jessica Samuels and presented by the Canadian Mental Health Association's Kelowna branch, A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health digs into the real-world factors that impact our psychological well-being. This isn't just a discussion of symptoms, but a thoughtful exploration of the societal, cultural, and personal stressors that weigh on us. Each episode moves beyond simply identifying problems to focus on practical approaches and tangible practices that can make a difference. You'll hear conversations that acknowledge how interconnected our mental health is with our physical fitness, our community, and the world around us. Supported by Beem Credit Union, the podcast provides a grounded space where complex topics feel accessible. Tuning in offers more than just insight; it’s about gathering useful information and realistic tools that you can apply to your own life. The goal is to leave each conversation with a clearer sense of direction and, as the title suggests, a genuine path toward resilience. This is a resource for anyone looking to understand the nuances of mental health and find actionable strategies for themselves and their communities.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 27

A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health
Podcast Episodes
Episode 5: Mental Health & The Holidays [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:03
In Episode 5 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna for a conversation on Mental Health & The Holidays. The h…
Episode 4: Men's Mental Health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:53
In Episode 4 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, for a discussion on men's mental health and suicide rate…
Episode 3: Cost of Living [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:28
In Episode 3 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, for a discussion on the cost of living and how it can af…
Episode 2: Housing & Homelessness [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:08
In Episode 2 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, for a discussion on housing and homelessness. This episo…
Episode 1: Youth Mental Health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:07
In the first episode of A Way Forward Podcast: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, Jessica Samuels covers the topic of Youth Mental Health with CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawliuk and the need for m…
A Way Forward - Podcast Trailer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:31
Introducing A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, hosted by Jessica Samuels in partnership with CMHA Kelowna, and presented by Beem Credit Union. In this short introduction episode, Jessica Samuels outlines that…