Surviving Trauma in the Mountains
Creating Connection: The Journey to Healing

Ayla von Diebitsch
4th Year BScN Student at the University of Victoria in collaboration with Selkirk College
Background: British Columbia is seeing a significant
increase in the number of Search and Rescue calls
for incidence in the backcountry. Surviving an
incident in the mountains can have a serious impact
on a person’s health and wellbeing. Yet there is a
lack of support and resources specific to this
population.

Methodology: A literature review was conducted on the lived experience
of people who have survived trauma in the mountains and the health
outcomes associated with these events. Literature was accessed utilizing
numerous academic databases. Grey literature on survivors' experience
was also included to deepen our understanding. The collected data was
then categorized into themes and used to perform a need assessment on
what type of resources are needed for this population.

Results: There are serious health
sequelae resulting from these types of
events. PTSD, anxiety, sleep
disturbances, depression and loss of
identity are all common for people who
have survived this type of trauma.
Additionally, survivors often experience
significant shame and guilt related to
their experience. Connection, social
support, and education on the effects
of trauma are shown to decrease the
long term health effects following
trauma in the mountains.
Acknowledgments: I would like to thank my field guide Andy
Jones for his guidance and encouragement, and my instructors
Nicole Brown and Julia Langham for their support.

Outcomes: The Mountain Trauma Support
Network, a not-for-profit association, was
created to provide education and support to
people who have been affected by this type
of trauma. Through collaboration with local
health care providers we plan on reducing
barriers in accessing counselling services
and support. Additionally, we plan shifting
the discourse regarding these events and
advocating for a trauma-informed care
approach to be taken when working with
people who have survived trauma in the
mountains.
For more information contact aylavondiebitsch@edu.selkirk.ca.
Know you are not alone. If you or someone you love needs help,
please phone Crisis Services Canada at 1-833-456-4566.