** Body of missing UK paramedic found; foul play not involved
** Alberta Paramedic Association partners with psychologists to combat PTSD
UNITED KINGDOM NEWS
** Merseyside police say a body found in Whiston yesterday morning is likely that of missing paramedic Alan Gribben, 51. The Echo (Ben Turner-Le/December 15) said Gribben, who worked for North West Ambulance Service, went missing Monday from his St. Helen’s home. According to the newspaper, Gribben’s disappearance was described as being out of character for him. Police said foul play was not involved. Autopsy results are pending.
CANADA NEWS
** The Alberta Paramedic Association (APA) and the Psychologists Association of Alberta are joining forces to fight Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in emergency responders. That is the word from Global News (Su-Ling Goh/December 14) which said the pair are forming a registry full of psychologists qualified and experienced in treating the disorder. According to the news site, so far 10 psychologists have signed up. Along with having the proper qualifications, signees must also attend an EMS run workshop informing them what paramedics do. According to the APA, some 20 per cent of currently practicing paramedics meet PTSD diagnostic criteria, while 10 per cent have contemplated suicide.
