As the challenges facing frontline agencies grow so, too, does the pressure on first responder families. They are often impacted by ‘spillover stress,’ with many experiencing secondary trauma and stresses. They are also an important source of care and support for first responders, which can cause additional pressure. But an evidence-based early intervention approach that uses social connection to support families is making a tangible difference to their mental health and wellbeing.

New research into a social connection program delivered by Fortem Australia has found it improved health and wellbeing, strengthened personal networks and improved mental health awareness. Conducted by Gallipoli Medical Research, it found 89% of program participants reported benefits to their health and wellbeing, and 93% reported improved mental health awareness. It also found participants who attended with partners, family or workmates reported higher health and wellbeing benefits compared to those attending alone.

It’s an early intervention approach that continues to gain traction within the mental health service community. Social prescription is an emerging healthcare approach which enables medical professionals to refer patients to non-medical, community-based services aimed at enhancing health and wellbeing and preventing suicide.

Fortem CEO Michael Willing APM will discuss some of the findings of Gallipoli’s research project, outline how Fortem is making social connection more accessible to first responders and their families in regional and remote areas, and share first-hand accounts, via a video presentation, from the partners and children of first responders about the pressures they face and how social connection is supporting them.