Peer Support Programs to Reduce Organizational Stress and Trauma for Public Safety Workers: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Public safety workers (PSWs) face significant organizational stress and burnout due to job hazards and work-related stressors.
• Traumatic events, job demands, and lack of administrative support negatively impact PSWs' mental health.
• Peer support programs (PSPs) are recognized interventions for addressing PSW mental health needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the utilization of PSPs for reducing organizational stress and trauma among PSWs.
• To identify facilitators and barriers associated with the implementation and effectiveness of PSPs.
• To discuss specific implications of PSPs for correctional officers (COs).

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was conducted following the Arksey and O'Malley methodology.
• A comprehensive literature search was performed across six databases for articles published between 1996 and 2021.
• Selected articles focused on the description, implementation, or evaluation of peer support interventions for PSWs.

Main Results:

• Thirteen articles met the eligibility criteria for the review.
• Organizational support, peer leadership training, confidentiality, trust, and shared experiences were crucial for PSP sustainability.
• Stigma was the primary barrier to participation, yet PSWs reported PSPs normalized experiences, increased hope, and reduced stigma.

Conclusions:

• PSPs show potential as a mental health intervention to mitigate organizational stress and trauma in PSWs, particularly COs.
• Understanding the facilitators and barriers is essential for the successful development and implementation of PSPs.
• PSPs can help bridge gaps in accessing mental health services for public safety personnel.