Selection, training, and support of relief workers: an occupational health issue

摘要

Although emergency relief workers are at considerable physical and psychological risk, their mental health has been studied little. Procedures for recruitment, selection, training, field support, and follow up of relief workers vary widely. Preventive mental health measures for relief workers receive little attention. Discounting the effects of psychological trauma on workers reflects disregard for their wellbeing and that of the populations they seek to serve. Relief organisations should develop a coordinated and cooperative approach to training and managing field workers.