READ: IAED Journal's "Mental Health Matters" by Paul Bourgeois, Ph.D.

image via IAED Journal

AEP Director of Research Paul Bourgeois has teamed with the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) for a new series in their Journal of Emergency Dispatch. In the series’ inaugural edition, Paul explores his most recent research study, titled “Knowledge and Training Regarding the Link Between Trauma and Health: A National Survey of Emergency Dispatchers.“

Paul explains how his research shows a high level of understanding from the Emergency Dispatch community about the risks associated with the profession, and that the amount of dispatchers nationwide who have been given formal training linking their day-to-day work with mental health issues is alarmingly low (53%.) Paul then briefly touches upon some practical applications for higher levels of support, such as enhanced and proactive educational initiatives and robust support systems.

You can read more about the study at The IAED Journal, and keep a look out for editions of the series.