Paramedics in the South West are finding solace in a mental health support program, with some crediting it for their continued employment. The South Western Ambulance Service Foundation Trust (SWASFT) is witnessing a surge in demand for mental health services, with over 1,600 staff members accessing support through their Staying Well initiative in the past year. This initiative has evolved over the past decade, incorporating an in-house trauma therapist to cater to the unique challenges faced by emergency responders.
Lauren Dunn, the trust's mental health lead, highlights a concerning trend: emergency responders are more prone to mental health issues than the general population. She emphasizes the importance of the Staying Well service, stating, 'We know one in four people are diagnosed with a mental health condition every year, and we know in blue light services that that is higher.' The service aims to provide immediate support during moments of crisis.
Toria Ford, an emergency medical dispatcher, shares her experience, noting the unpredictability of her work. She explains, 'The difficulties that other people go through, what people are experiencing maybe once or twice in their life, to make them call 999, you then come into the job and experience that five, six, seven times a day.' This constant exposure to traumatic events takes a toll on her mental health, leading to anxiety and performance concerns.
After accessing the Staying Well service, Ford received counseling and therapy, which she found immensely beneficial. She states, 'I think just reaching out and being able to get the support was really, really beneficial. It's definitely helped, it's kept me in the job.'
Mylena Wheaton, a paramedic with 17 years of experience, also credits the Staying Well service for her well-being. She acknowledges the emotional toll of her work, from delivering babies to handling major incidents with multiple fatalities. Wheaton sought support in November 2024, realizing her need for help when struggling with seemingly routine jobs. She explains, 'I realized that when I went to a job that was quite a normal job, and I wasn't coping very well with it, that's when I realized that I knew I needed help.'
Both Ford and Wheaton emphasize the importance of reaching out for support, highlighting how it has positively impacted their careers and overall well-being. The Staying Well initiative serves as a testament to the growing recognition of mental health support within emergency services, ensuring that paramedics and other first responders receive the care they need to navigate the challenges of their demanding jobs.
