In this episode, your series host Mark Creamer and episode co-host Patricia Watson, Phoenix Australia’s Responder Assist consultant and psychologist for the U.S. National Center for PTSD, unpack the importance of supportive leadership and organisational structures that support emergency workers' mental health.

Listen in to be reminded of the value and power of peer support with Neville Goddard, a volunteer firefighter for more than 35 years. He shares how the Victorian Country Fire Authority peer support program works, what training is involved and the program’s positive impacts for emergency workers and their families.

Hear expert insight from general practitioner Maya Edgerton Bachmann, as she shares practical tips to destigmatize help seeking behaviour, the barriers emergency workers often face, and the key role GPs play in advocating for and supporting emergency workers and their families.

Liked this episode? Stay tuned for the third which will be released in early 2023 when Mark Creamer is joined by Andrea Phelps, Deputy Director of Phoenix Australia and Dr Tony McHugh to discuss some of the challenges clinicians might face in supporting emergency workers’ mental health.

Emergency Workers: Responder Assist is a podcast series produced in partnership between Phoenix Australia’s Responder Assist, Centre for Excellence in Emergency Worker Mental Health and The Mental Health Professionals’ Network (MHPN).

Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form.

Share your comments, questions and feedback about Emergency Workers: Responder Assist or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: bit.ly/37FFMFM.