Black Dog Institute is offering free world-class mental health support for emergency service workers and volunteers who have been impacted by recent severe weather events in Queensland.
The National Emergency Worker Support Service (NEWSS), established by Black Dog Institute and UNSW Sydney in 2020, achieves PTSD recovery rates of more than 80 per cent and has reached over 230,000 emergency workers across Australia since its launch.
"Natural disasters don't just leave behind physical damage – they can take a serious toll on mental health as well. Emergency service professionals perform vital roles in protecting their communities, often under intense and demanding conditions. It's essential that we connect them to the right support when and where they need it," says Professor Sam Harvey, Executive Director and Chief Scientist of Black Dog Institute and co-lead of the NEWSS initiative.
With ex-tropical cyclone Alfred, widespread flooding, and severe storms causing significant disruption across Queensland, experts are urging emergency service workers affected by these events to reach out to the service for support.
Nearly one-third (30%) of emergency service workers report experiencing high or very high psychological distress at work, while an estimated 1 in 10 will develop PTSD related to critical incidents. Their work often involves responding to traumatic events such as vehicle accidents, house fires, and medical emergencies, as well as facing potential violence and the escalating impact of natural disasters.
Emergency workers in rural and regional areas, particularly those in small, close-knit communities, face even greater risks, with the added emotional strain of assisting people they may personally know.
"Natural disasters disproportionately affect regional and rural communities, placing emergency workers in these areas at higher risk of experiencing cumulative trauma due to repeated exposure to these events," says Professor Harvey.
NEWSS services are accessible to emergency service workers and volunteers across Australia. Drawing on the latest research evidence in emergency worker mental health, experienced clinicians deliver expert, tailored treatment for a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Clinical services are available in person and via videoconferencing, and the NEWSS team also provides specialised training for local GPs in communities around Australia.
In addition to helping those impacted by trauma, the service also offers resources to support mental wellbeing, helping emergency service workers stay resilient and proactive in managing their mental health on the job.
