Webinar 'Breaking the Silence' Highlights Mental Health Struggles of Humanitarian Workers
A timely webinar, 'Breaking the Silence - Mental Health in Humanitarian Medicine', was held to mark World Mental Health Day. It explored the psychological toll on those providing urgent care and relief in high-stress environments. Panelists included Laura Jones, Global Head of Staff Health and Wellbeing at Save the Children International, Hareen De Silva, a seasoned humanitarian aid worker, and Jamie Pattison, a SAR Paramedic & flight paramedic.
The webinar highlighted the significant mental health challenges faced by first responders and aid workers. Laura Jones, responsible for staff wellbeing in crisis zones, discussed specific psychological deficits. These include increased risks of PTSD, burnout, depression, anxiety, and impaired coping mechanisms due to chronic exposure to trauma and high-pressure situations.
Hareen De Silva, with extensive humanitarian aid experience, shared insights from his career supporting various organizations. Jamie Pattison, a UKISAR volunteer, offered perspectives from his roles as a SAR Paramedic & flight paramedic. The panelists emphasized the need for better mental health support and awareness in the sector.
The 'Breaking the Silence' webinar underscored the urgent need to address mental health in humanitarian medicine. It called for improved support systems, awareness, and training for first responders and aid workers. The panelists, including Laura Jones, Hareen De Silva, and Jamie Pattison, highlighted the importance of prioritising mental health in crisis zones to ensure the wellbeing of those who selflessly serve others.
