Ombudsman Says Military Underestimating Mental Health Risks of Domestic Deployments

Ombudsman Says Military Underestimating Mental Health Risks of Domestic Deployments
Members of the Canadian Forces prepare sandbags for distribution to residents threatened by floodwaters in Gatineau, Que, on April 24, 2019. The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld
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Canada is underestimating the mental health impact domestic emergencies like wildfires and COVID-19 have had on the military reservists who respond to them, a new report says.

Gregory Lick, the Canadian Armed Forces ombudsman, said there are also gaps in health-care policies and a shortage of health professionals which put the military’s 28,500 reservists at a disadvantage compared to regular force members.