A brief descriptive analysis of a pilot study of peer support training and supervision for Texas firefighters.

Background: Peer support has been shown to reduce the incidence and severity of mental health disorders among firefighters. This pilot project had two aims: (1) to assess training satisfaction and knowledge, self-efficacy, and skills development of Texas firefighters participating in the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Peer Support Training, and (2) to determine if newly trained peer support specialists would use monthly phone supervision.

Methods: The study included 14 Texas firefighters who enrolled in the IAFF Peer Support Training. Pre- and post-tests were administered to evaluate training satisfaction, skills development, self-efficacy, and behavioral health knowledge of participants. Use of phone supervision over 6 months following the training was also recorded.

Results: Overall, participants reported high satisfaction with the training provided. While self-efficacy regarding detection of mental health issues and therapeutic empathy skills significantly improved following the training, participants did not show a significant improvement in knowledge regarding mental health. Attendance of participants to supervision calls was less than expected, although 71% attended at least one supervision call.

Conclusions: This project was successful in increasing firefighters' self-efficacy and therapeutic empathy skills, and participants were highly satisfied with the training. However, further research on follow-up supervision of peer support trainees is needed.