(P1-90) Guidelines for Psychosocial Support for Uniformed Services

Abstract

In the Netherlands in 2010, the multidisciplinary guidelines for the psychosocial support of uniformed services organizations (USOs) were developed. These guidelines are accepted as a national standard for psychosocial support for police, firebrigade, ambulance services, the Ministry of Defence, and coast guard. This presentation will focus on the backgrounds, development, and status of these guidelines, and an outline of the contents will be given. Members of USOs consistently are exposed to potentially shocking events. It was recognized that there is a need in the field for clarity and unambiguity about the organization of psychosocial care to this group. The goal of the guidelines is to guarantee optimal psychosocial support and care after experiencing disasters and shocking events, so that stress-related health problems among members of the emergency services are prevented. The guidelines are evidence-based, i.e., they are based on the results of the latest scientific studies, knowledge from experience (best practices), and other considerations. Consensus was reached that the promotion of the existing means of recovery of the USO member, and the facilitation of these means by peer support structures, are the key to a successful psychosocial support system. The peer support system has an important role in recognizing those affected with psychological and/or serious clinical symptoms that require diagnosis and/or treatment. Diagnosis and treatment should be exercised by mental health professionals. Therefore, they must be readily available, but should only be deployed when necessary. Three phases in the psychosocial support for USO members are discerned: (1) preparation (selection, information and training); (2) peer support and monitoring, (3) and referral for professional care (if necessary). The guidelines provide recommendations for the USO for each of these phases. National guidelines such as these should be discussed internationally to see whether they can provide a basis for further (international) implementation and use.