The Trauma of Emergency Service Workers - Expert Insights for Health Professionals

Australia’s emergency service workers keep our communities safe. Encountering unprecedented levels of emotional distress when responding to crises is part of the job. While for most people the distress will only last a few days or weeks, some will go on to develop mental health issues. Learning more about the impacts of trauma, skills to help manage the distress of your patients and what support services are available to them can help with their recovery. This Expert Insights panel session discusses the impact of traumatic events on emergency service workers and communities, how to identify trauma and what supports are available with a spotlight on those available through Phoenix Australia and Black Dog Institute. Opportunities for further training and where to find useful evidence based resources are also be discussed. Panelists Prof. Sam Harvey - Deputy Director, Black Dog Institute Peter - ex firefighter and lived experience representative Alexandra Howard - Director of Disaster and Public Health Emergencies, Phoenix Australia Dr Carol Newall - Facilitator Recording and sound production - Nathan Bell Voiceover - Cameron Banks, Black Dog Institute