Implementation of a Mental Health Task Force in a collegiate-based emergency medical services organization
Journal of American college health: J of ACH
Short Title:
J Am Coll Health
Format:
Journal Article
Publication Date:
2019/04/04/
Pages:
1 - 5
Sources ID:
108761
Collection:
Mindfulness Studies and Undergraduates
Visibility:
Public (group default)
Abstract:
(Show)
OBJECTIVE: A Mental Health Task Force (MHTF) was implemented in 2016 by a collegiate-based emergency medical services (CBEMS) organization to (1) improve mental health emergency response and to (2) address concerns for the mental health of CBEMS providers.PARTICIPANTS: Skidmore College EMS is a Basic Life Support First Response service staffed by volunteer undergraduate students.
METHODS: In coordination with faculty and staff, students in the MHTF developed trainings, peer support structures, community events, policies, and informational resources.
RESULTS: Sixteen students joined the MHTF within 1 year. Over 35 Skidmore College EMS members received training on mental health emergency response, peer-support, and self-care. Debriefing programs, mindfulness-based events, shift-length limitations, and access to informational resources promoted the mental health of Skidmore College EMS members.
CONCLUSIONS: Implementing an MHTF is an innovative, student-led approach to coupling education on emergency response with programming that supports the mental health of CBEMS providers.