The psychological well-being of emergency response personnel in the province of Cebu

ABSTRACT

Emergency response personnel (ERP) hold a vital role in disaster management. They respond to victims in stressful situations yet there is limited information about their psychological well-being. This study aimed to explore the psychological well-being of ERP in the province of Cebu. Eight ERP from emergency response organisations in Cebu were purposely selected to participate in one-on-one interviews. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and subthemes. Themes that emerged were (1) The Perspective of an Unsung Hero, (2) Conditions Brought About by an Emergency Response, (3) Social Connections and Relationships, and (4) Fragments of the Past. Findings suggest that despite recurring exposure to disasters, ERP are able to improve oneself in the midst of adversity and value interpersonal relationships. Continued support from different public and private sectors is essential to cater their psychological needs which in turn contribute to their overall well-being. Occupational therapists, having roles in disaster response, can also provide support and strategies to contribute to emergency responders’ psychological well-being.

KEYWORDS:

• Disaster response
• emergency response personnel
• Cebu
• Philippines
• psychological well-being
• qualitative interviews
• occupational therapy

Acknowledgements

The researchers would like to thank the emergency response personnel who participated in the study and who shared their experiences throughout their years of service. This research endeavour would not be possible as well without the researchers’ parents for their financial and emotional support. Last but not least, to the Almighty Father, for His grace and enlightenment.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

ORCID

Paolo Miguel P. Bulan http://orcid.org/0000-0001-5182-3224