OSI and PTSD Resources

What is an Operational Stress Injury (OSI)?

Veterans Affairs Canada defines an Operational Stress Injury (OSI) as "any persistent psychological difficulty resulting from operational duties performed while serving with the Canadian Forces or as a member of the RCMP." These difficulties can include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and addictions. An OSI can result from exposure to a traumatic incident, cumulative exposure to human atrocities, or simply sustained exposure to intense military operations. (VAC: Understanding mental health)

How is an OSI different from PTSD?

An OSI can have symptoms similar to PTSD, but it may be caused by a series of smaller traumas or stressful events over a long period of time. People with an OSI may have diagnoses other than PTSD, including acute stress disorder, adjustment disorder, or an anxiety or depressive disorder. (Addiction Resource: Trauma, PTSD and OSI)

More support

• Veterans Affairs Canada: contact and support lines
• Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS): peer support for CAF members, veterans and their families
• VAC: PTSD entitlement eligibility guidelines
• Wounded Warriors Canada: mental health programs for veterans, first responders and their families
• Nova Scotia Service Dog Act