Presented by Lisa Holmes

Despite there being Paramedic Professional Competency Standards that relate to the mental health of paramedics, there is currently no formal requirement for the inclusion of personal mental health well being within accredited undergraduate paramedic programmes. The findings from the first part of the study 'Exploring the preparedness of novice paramedics for the mental health challenges of the paramedic profession' investigated the current level of coverage of this topic. The inclusion of anticipation, confidence and fears of both students and course coordinators also offers an insight into current views and informs the second part of the study, which is focused on experienced paramedics and their strategies for overcoming and/or maintaining mental health well being.

Lisa Holmes is a member of the ECU undergraduate Paramedicine Team, coordinating and teaching non clinical units, in addition to being a PhD student. Lisa has worked with paramedics in an education and training context for many years both here in Australia and in the UK.