To mark Mental Health Awareness Week (18-24 May 2020), the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) with the support of UK ambulance services – including West Midlands Ambulance Service – has released a video of ambulance staff discussing their experiences with their mental health.
The film – produced before the coronavirus pandemic and before social distancing – involves members of staff from ambulance services across the country: Izzy, Scott, Ricky and West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic Amanda, speaking honestly and openly about their experiences.
Amanda was treated for PTSD, post traumatic stress disorder after struggling to cope with some particularly difficult cases. In the video she talks of her experiences working in our Service and the support she has received from managers and colleagues.
This year the theme for Mental Health Awareness Week is kindness. Now, more than ever, with the effects of the coronavirus on us all, a simple act of kindness – such as a conversation – could really help a person who is struggling with their mental health.
There are mental health resources for ambulance service employees, families and volunteers from the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives here.
Check out the NHS Every Mind Matters resources here.