My Mum, My Hero: New Children’s Book Helps Families Explain PTSD in First Responders

The Code 9 Foundation has released My Mum, My Hero, a children's book designed to help families explain post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health injuries affecting first responders. The book is a companion to the previously published My Dad, My Hero.

The Mental Health Toll on Emergency Workers

Research indicates that emergency service workers experience higher rates of mental health challenges. The Beyond Blue Answering the Call study of nearly 15,000 Australian police and emergency services personnel found:

• One in 10 currently serving first responders experience probable PTSD.
• Up to one in four former first responders experience PTSD after leaving the profession.
• More than one-third report high or very high psychological distress.

"Children notice when their parents are tired or distressed. Resources like this help children understand their parent's work."
— Victoria Police Sergeant Jaime Coles

Women in First Responder Roles

Women now constitute:

• More than half of Australia's paramedic workforce
• Nearly one-third of police officers
• Around 10 percent of firefighters
• The majority of 000 operators

Voices from the Frontline

Victoria Police Sergeant and Code 9 Foundation Treasurer Madeline Gillard said the book reflects the experiences of many families in emergency services.

Victoria Police Sergeant Jaime Coles stated that children notice when their parents are tired or distressed, and that resources like this help children understand their parent's work.

About the Code 9 Foundation

The Code 9 Foundation is an Australian charity that supports the families of current and veteran professional first responders. It provides practical support, connection, and resources, including:

• Children's books
• Peer support programs
• Family connection programs