Mental health needs and wants of younger first responders: Identifying vulnerabilities and opportunities for developing a targeted mental health toolkit for surf lifesavers aged 13–25 years

Introduction: Surf lifesavers form a key part of Australia’s first responder workforce, performing water rescues and responding to high-risk incidents along Australia’s coast. Previous research revealed younger personnel (aged 13–25) are at a higher risk of post-traumatic stress (PTS) and other mental health impacts compared with older counterparts. This exploratory study aims to identify and articulate the needs of this demographic and their preferences towards creating a tailored mental health toolkit. Methods: An anonymous, online survey of Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) membership was conducted to measure mental health, to understand members’ preferences for appropriate mental health content and activities, and preferred toolkit formats. Results: Survey data (lifesavers aged 13–25; N = 82) highlighted high prevalence of mental health concerns, including PTS symptoms (PTSS), previous mental health diagnoses, and high rates of a friend with a mental health concern among respondents. A relationship (r = -0.52) was found between both levels of stigma and levels of social support and PTSS. PTSS was found to separately correlate with both lower levels of social support and higher levels of stigma. Although mental health literacy confers other benefits, we found no significant correlation between mental health literacy levels and PTSS. There was a heterogeneity of preferences for toolkit content, particularly in comparing older and younger SLSA members of the 13–25 years cohort. Conclusions: Mental health toolkits may help address PTSS, particularly if delivered as part of wider mental health promotion efforts. Specifically, stigma and social support can be targeted in future toolkits. Practical Applications: This study supports development of resources to support younger members within a first responder organization. Findings can generate discussion prompts with people with lived experience in more intensive participatory methods (such as focus groups and workshops) and can be drawn upon to support resource development in the future.