Research On BOS

Wayfound values our relationships with academic research partners to ensure that the interventions we provide are effective and efficient.  We have been working with a team of independent researchers from the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment (CIPSRT) at the University of Regina since 2018, who have conducted an independent evaluation of the effectiveness of the Before Operational Stress (BOS) program since that time. 

We are thrilled to announce the first publication of BOS program data!  In August 2021, data from the initial research project were published in a peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Psychology. The results of the longitudinal, mixed methods study provided evidence of statistically significant reductions in symptoms of PTSD and depression for BOS participants, as well as increased social support and quality of life.  BOS program participants also reported reduced stigma relative to their mental health challenges.  The pilot data supported BOS as an intervention and placed it as the only program of its kind in Canada to demonstrate positive empirically-supported results.

Wayfound, in partnership with Wounded Warriors Canada, has continued to collect data on the BOS program and to evaluate its effectiveness.  The program was required to shift to a virtual delivery system at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed the research team to compare the results of the BOS program when delivered in person or through virtual technology.  The program has now reached almost 900 Canadian public safety employees and the next publication regarding the effectiveness of the virtual program will be published early in 2022.  As the program has evolved, we have been able to develop a continuum of BOS programming for employees across the career trajectory.  We now have a lecture series designed for new recruits, an online, go-at-your-own pace version of the program and the virtual and in-person delivery options.  The research team at CIPSRT continues to gather data from participants receiving all forms of the BOS program and is committed to publication of results as data becomes available.  It is our commitment to ensure that the effectiveness of the BOS program is preserved as we develop innovative and accessible means for public safety personnel and other frontline workers to participate.

All individuals participating in the BOS program will have the opportunity to participate in research evaluating the program. The study will be conducted by researchers at the Canadian Institute of Public Safety Research and Treatment (CIPSRT). Participation in the study is voluntary and does not influence ability to participate in the BOS program.