"Left Out at the Kitchen Table": Exploring Peer Support Needs Among Women Firefighters

Firefighting is a high-stress, high-risk occupation with well-documented physical, mental, and behavioral health challenges. While women firefighters report behavioral health outcomes similar to men when working in supportive environments, rates of depression, anxiety, and PTSD increase significantly in the context of workplace discrimination and exclusion. These challenges, often dismissed as human resources issues, emerge as critical health and safety concerns. Despite the growing adoption of peer support programs in the fire service, little is known about how these resources can be tailored to the needs of women firefighters.

This qualitative study used an inductive thematic analysis approach to explore women firefighters' perceptions and experiences with peer support in the fire service. Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 35 women firefighters and key fire service stakeholders across the United States. Interviews explored perceptions of peer support, barriers to engagement, trust and comfort within peer support networks, and preferred communication and messaging strategies.

Participants described widespread concerns related to stigma, confidentiality, and access to culturally competent care. Thematic analysis revealed seven key domains: barriers to support, effective messaging, the role of peer support, gendered workplace dynamics, resource needs, leadership influence, and stress relief strategies. Many participants emphasized the importance of inclusive, integrated support programs that acknowledge but do not isolate women in the fire service.

Findings highlight the need for proactive, inclusive peer support strategies that reflect the lived experiences of women firefighters. Insights from these interviews provide critical guidance for the development of peer support resources that foster connection, trust, and psychological safety.