Examining the acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of a mental health training program for managers in an ambulance service

Objective: This study examined the acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of a manager mental health training tailored for an ambulance service. Methods: A 4-hour evidence-based training was delivered face-to-face with the option of attending via live-stream video link to leaders/managers within an Australian state-based ambulance service. Results: Twenty-six participants (20 in-person and 6 online) attended the training with 24 (92.3%) participants providing pre-and-post data. All (24) participants found the training useful and 23 (95.8%) would recommend it to colleagues. Post-intervention data showed a significant improvement in knowledge of leaders’ role, confidence managing workplace mental health matters, and attitudes (all p<0.001). Conclusion: This manager mental health training tailored for ambulance personnel was found to be acceptable for this group of managers. A full trial is indicated based on trends to support the mental health needs of staff.