Mental Health Education Program Development for New Fire Officials

Abstract

The aim of this study was to develop a Mental Health Education Program for new fire officials and to verify its effectiveness. The program was developed through a pilot study, needs analysis, model design, and content selection. It was conducted over three days with a total of seven sessions, with fifty new fire officials participating in the program. Stress, anxiety, and self-efficacy levels among new fire officials were examined before and after the program. The results indicated that stress and anxiety were meaningfully reduced after completing the program, and self-efficacy was improved. Interviews conducted with participants after program completion reported that relaxation training was usually used and the psychological support of colleagues who also attended the program had the effect of reducing job-related stress. This study makes a meaningful contribution through developing a program that reflects the characteristics of new fire officials. The program was developed using a scientific and systematic method through needs analysis.