Question

When reflecting on the research on PTG in Emergency and Disaster workers, what aspects of the emergency services can we improve to foster more resiliency? Think about previous modules in this course and how other topics seem to emerge in this aspect of emergency work (e.g., organizational stress, social support, self-efficacy, etc.). What can you do to foster hardiness and resiliency for yourself, your workplace and your home?

Answer 1

While reseachers reflected upon Post traumatic growth im emergency and disaster workers, it was found that certain steps undertaken before, during and post the disaster can make a huge impact in terms of enhancing its management. It is seen that preparedness before hand and taking steps in order to avoid the disaster or at least reduce its damage has been seen as beneficial. Other than that, during and after the occurence, support system via organizations and stakeholders is of great importance. Immediate supply of the items in need as well as manpower to manage the rescue operation is a must for appropriate management. Healthcare workers play a role in controlling epidemics and preventing diseases amidst victims during the time of misery. Humanitarian workers and volunteers along with exclusive mental health professionals play a key role in instilling hope among the victims and managing their emotional & mental well-being. It is of great importance at a time when they are prone to depression and other serious psychological distress. Emergency services need to be managed smoothly in order to avoid chaos.

In fact in case of organizational stress as well, working at three levels is indispensable for ensuring the well-being of workers. At a primary level, workshops, seminars, discussions and debates around importance of mental & emotional health plays a role in making employees self aware and cognizant of these themes. Importance of happiness index and stress management may increase the chances for better mental health amidst them. At a secondary stage, identifying people at risk through effective assessment techniques is key to ensuring intervention as per their requirement. Finally at a tertiary level, proviidng the appropriate intervention strategies by connecting them to the experts of that field so that future safety is ensured. The same is in fact true for social support as well. This means having systems in place in advance to ensure the well-being of participants can avoid mishaps. Self-efficacy is one's belief in the capability to succeed in future. It can be influenced by engaging participants or members of an organisation in motivational talks, seminars, webinars, etc. Such engagements can help enhance their belief in themselves, bringing them in touch with the immense potential that they possess & how it can be utilised by bringing out their strengths. In order to foster greater resilience in different settings for oneself, it is important to first become aware of one's own self. Mostly the lack of awareness regarding one's own conflicts lead to further complications for individuals. This means that not being cognizant of own strengths, weaknesses, abilities, goals, desires and even orientation towards life can make an impact on how people approach everyday problem solving, decision making and other crucial aspects of daily living. Once that awareness is enhanced, the chances of being able to build on the strengths and overcoming of weaknesses are increased, thereby improving one's ability to cope. This same principle is applicable for the different settings within which we operate. Other than self awareness, working on enhancing self esteem, improving on the problem solving ability & decision making, increasing coping skills by working on them can help a person become better equipped to deal with the struggles.