Introduction: In recent years, the expansion and prolonged duration of disasters have underscored the importance of addressing traumatic stress among disaster support personnel. Effective support mechanisms are essential to mitigate the psychological impact experienced by individuals engaged in disaster response. Methods: A survey was conducted from August to September 2021 to examine how disaster support personnel manage traumatic stress across various professions and organizational affiliations. A questionnaire was distributed to 1,109 organizations involved in disaster response in Japan, with ethical approval from the Life Design Graduate School Ethics Committee at Toyo University (approval number: 2020- 7S). Results: Valid responses were obtained from 581 individuals, including members of the Self-Defense Forces (22), police (12), fire services (260), coast guard (6), healthcare (146), social welfare (49), government administration (37), disaster volunteers (29), and psychological and other professionals (20). Qualitative analysis was conducted using the Steps for Coding and Theorization (SCAT) method to examine free-text responses. The analysis identified five key elements necessary for social support to assist disaster responders: the importance of psychological support, assistance from family and peers, workplace environment and interpersonal relationships, ongoing education and training, and structured organizational support systems. Conclusion: In large-scale disaster settings where multiple professions collaborate, establishing shared rest spaces, providing access to psychological counselors, and conducting regular stress assessments are critical for enhancing mental health support. Furthermore, feedback mechanisms, such as coordination meetings, can strengthen support systems, promote mental well-being, and foster a cooperative, multi-agency approach to sustaining the mental health of disaster response personnel.
Kentaro Yamamoto (Sun,) studied this question.