Multiplier concepts for stress and emotion regulation in emergency services - a scoping review

BackgroundEmployees in emergency services are at increased risk of developing psychological impairments because they are exposed to high levels of physical and emotional stressors in their daily work. Dealing with these stressors represents an important resource for coping in the sense of salutogenesis. In order to ensure that the promotion of stress and emotion regulation is not only effective on a behavioural level, multiplier concepts with a relationship-related interlocking in the work systems are appropriate. ObjectiveThe aim of this scoping review is to review the available evidence on multiplier concepts for stress and emotion regulation in emergency services. Materials and methodsThe content of the review is based on the model of salutogenesis, and the methodology on the concept of the Joanna Briggs Institute for conducting scoping reviews. The search was based on the PubMed and PubPsych search interfaces (all sources of evidence) and covered German- and English-language literature in the period from 1997 to 2023. All steps of the data review and extraction were carried out independently by two reviewers. ResultsA total of 22,345 datasets were identified and analysed for the review of available evidence. Finally, four full texts could be included. The interventions are also aimed at other professional groups in addition to emergency service personnel. All trainings are modular. Psychosocial resistance resources are diverse. In three out of four studies, small results can be proven; one intervention increases the self-efficacy of the participants. ConclusionWorldwide, there are no specific concepts that are explicitly aimed at rescue service workers. Targeted interventions are necessary due to the high stress levels of this occupational group.