Mental health support is proving to be a vital lifeline for paramedics in the South West, with many crediting such services for their ability to remain in their demanding roles.
The South Western Ambulance Service Foundation Trust (SWASFT), which employs over 6,000 staff and includes around 650 volunteers, has reported an unprecedented demand for mental health assistance among its workforce. In the past year alone, more than 1,600 employees sought help through its Staying Well program, reflecting a growing recognition of the mental health challenges faced by emergency responders.
Lauren Dunn, who leads the mental health initiatives at the trust, highlighted that paramedics are statistically more likely to develop mental health issues compared to the general public. She pointed out that the need for services like Staying Well has surged since its inception a decade ago, evolving to include features such as onsite trauma therapists.
Dunn emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "We understand that one in four individuals will receive a mental health diagnosis each year, and in emergency services, this rate is even higher." She explained that the purpose of the Staying Well service is to ensure that support is readily available during critical moments of need.
Emergency medical dispatcher Toria Ford shared her perspective on the emotional strain of her job, noting one of the toughest aspects is not always knowing the outcomes of the calls she handles. "I’m the one who answers when you dial 999 for an ambulance," Ford explained. "After dispatching crews to a scene, I quickly move on to the next call."
Ford expressed that the daily exposure to traumatic situations can be overwhelming. "The hardships others endure, prompting them to call for emergency help, may happen just once or twice in their lives. For me, it’s multiple times a day—five, six, or seven critical emergencies. Managing these intense situations is significantly more taxing than what most people experience. I found it incredibly challenging."
After connecting with the Staying Well service, Ford received counseling that she found invaluable. "Reaching out for support was tremendously helpful. I truly believe it has enabled me to continue in my role."
Paramedic Mylena Wheaton, who has dedicated 17 years to the ambulance service, reflected on her experiences ranging from witnessing births to attending catastrophic incidents with numerous casualties. "I wasn’t fully prepared for the emotional toll that comes with this work," she admitted.
Wheaton sought assistance from the Staying Well service in November 2024 after realizing she was struggling to cope with what should have been a routine call. "That incident made me understand I needed help because I wasn’t handling it well."
She revealed that her anxiety had intensified, leading to concerns about her job performance and diminishing self-confidence. "I’m so relieved I reached out. Honestly, I don’t think I’d still be here if I hadn’t connected with someone during that difficult time. We witness so much that it becomes commonplace for us, but it’s not normal. Being present at someone's last moments can be profoundly traumatic, and often, we simply push those feelings aside."
This situation invites reflection on how we perceive the mental health needs of those serving on the front lines. Do we fully appreciate the emotional weight carried by emergency responders? How can we better support their mental well-being? Your thoughts and opinions are welcome in the comments below!
