EML, in partnership with UNSW Sydney, will undertake a three-year project to better understand and treat the links between PTSD, depression, and anxiety in NSW emergency services personnel.

The research, to be funded by an Australia Research Council grant, will evaluate an NSW emergency-services rehabilitation program addressing the persistent depression which impedes recovery and return-to-work in personnel affected by psychological trauma.

“Despite strong evidence that emergency services personnel experience elevated rates of PTSD and depression, there is a significant lack of research on how to optimally manage their stress reactions and enhance rehabilitation outcomes to help them return to work and their lives,” said Richard Bryant from UNSW’s School of Psychology and Senior Principal Research fellow.

Optimum results will see greater reductions in depression, better functioning, and enhanced return-to-work outcomes initially for frontline NSW emergency services personnel. Study outcomes could also help shape future policies of emergency services agencies and insurers worldwide.

“EML, through its Member Benefits program, is investing in this research and is excited to partner with Professor Richard Bryant and UNSW for the future of emergency services personnel,” said Elisa Hitchens, EML Member Benefits manager.