Boosting Resilience: New Training for Calgary’s ER Heroes

Calgary’s frontline emergency room workers are about to get a much-needed boost! On October 30, 2025, University of Calgary researchers unveiled an evidence-based trauma and resilience training program, directly tailored for the high-pressure environment of our city’s hospitals. This isn't just about mental health care; it's about shoring up the very backbone of Calgary’s healthcare system.

It's no secret our ERs are under immense strain. Calgary’s population surged by an incredible 95,784 people in 2023, growing three times faster than the 20-year average. This rapid expansion has undeniably put significant pressure on healthcare facilities, leading to longer wait times for vital services. Calgarians know this all too well, with some ER visits hitting nearly 15 hours in 2023, and the median wait in Calgary sitting at 4 hours and 42 minutes in 2024. Many residents surveyed even feel the city's growth is "too fast," largely due to concerns over healthcare access.

That's precisely why this six-year U of C study, conducted right here in a Calgary hospital, is so crucial. It digs deep into how emergency department staff cope with trauma, equipping them with strategies to build resilience. For everyday Calgarians, this translates directly to better, more efficient care when emergencies strike. Empowering our local heroes means they’re better equipped to take care of us when we need it most.

Local medical professionals are hopeful that integrating this innovative training will establish a new national standard in mental health practices for healthcare workers, underscoring Calgary’s commitment to top-tier research and real-world solutions. It’s a clear win for both our dedicated healthcare teams and every resident in our dynamic city. Stay tuned, Calgary; our ERs are on the path to getting stronger and more resilient.