Stress-resistance. Preventing professional burnout of firefighters

Topic(s) addressed

This project focuses on mental health, general wellbeing, strengthening self-esteem, conflict, and problem-solving, combating depression, choosing healthy habits, and team building.

Target group(s)

The target group included school students, state and voluntary firefighters, vocational teachers, and psychologists.

Methodologies

Students were encouraged to build their knowledge of psychology, healthcare, firefighting, and ICT. Students were taught the value of good mental health and how to maintain it in challenging situations. The understanding of stress and its risks was encouraged. The goal was to master stress relief using a set of special exercises. Feedback was welcomed through discussions, debriefing, and defusing after practical simulations. The use of expert lectures and discussions with experienced firefighters were used as innovative teaching methods.

Innovation environment

The school provides up-to-date information and stress management tools in cooperation with experts from individual countries. Stressful situations are simulated, which students deal with themselves, including technical, health, communication, and management issues. Through this experimental programme, cooperation and motivation were improved. All students were involved in the simulations as students from other disciplines acted as extras and assistants. The school cooperated with firefighters from several regions, rescuers, police, and experts from abroad.

Teachers’ role

Informal teaching methods were used as a form of innovative teaching, therefore, there was no routine and teaching was interesting for both teachers and students. The teachers were former professional firefighters and rescuers. Lessons were modified based on students’ needs, both independently and in cooperation with professional entities and partners. Participating teachers prepare materials for students and create the content of simulation games. Based on shared professional experiences, teaching goals were formulated to reflect the needs of current practice as closely as possible. 

Impact and output

Participants have mastered stress relief methods, while one has finished studying and started working as a professional firefighter. According to his assessment, the project was of massive benefit for him. Both men and women as well as pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds were involved in the simulations. Pupils have also engaged in peer learning, sharing the knowledge and experience gained in the project with their classmates and pupils from lower grades.