Supporting Ambulance Crew Mental Health

The Traumatic Environment of Ambulance Service

Ambulance service personnel operate in highly traumatic settings, facing life-and-death situations frequently.

Impact on Ambulance Crews

• Exposure to Stress: Daily encounters with distressing events take a toll on mental well-being.
• Extended Responsibilities: Ambulance crews not only attend to patients but also handle the aftermath, such as interactions with families in critical situations like cardiac arrests or road traffic collisions (RTCs).

Recognizing Signs of Stress

Indicators of Stress:

• Behavioural Changes: Loss of enthusiasm for work, avoidance of responsibilities, and physical symptoms like trembling or nausea before shifts.
• Emotional Strain: Feeling overwhelmed, experiencing constant worry, or reluctance to discuss job-related concerns.

Seeking Support

Importance of Communication:

It's crucial to address mental health challenges openly and seek assistance when needed.

• Reach Out: Discuss concerns with colleagues, occupational health services, or a general practitioner (GP).
• Don't Suppress Emotions: Expressing emotions and seeking help can prevent escalation of stress and its negative impact on personal and professional life.

Supporting Each Other

Building a Supportive Culture:

Creating an environment where colleagues feel comfortable discussing mental health issues fosters resilience and well-being.

• Look Out for Each Other: Notice changes in behaviour or demeanor among colleagues and offer support or guidance.
• Encourage Open Dialogue: Foster an atmosphere where seeking help is encouraged and stigmatization of mental health issues is eliminated.