This initiative builds on findings from the DZPG project Urban Mental Health (UMH), which focuses on promoting the mental health of professionals. The first step involves identifying the specific stressors and needs of the personnel. “Based on these insights, we design tailored interventions that have been empirically shown to be effective,” emphasizes UMH project lead Dr. Lukka Popp. The training sessions increase the mental health literacy of Bochum firefighters. “We continuously monitor the effectiveness of individual interventions and adapt them flexibly as needed,” she adds.
The ultimate objective is to develop a sustainable model for long-term implementation, aimed at reducing absences related to psychological strain. In recent years, the number of such absences has risen significantly, reports Simon Heußen, Head of the Bochum Fire Department. “The sources of stress vary greatly from person to person,” he explains. While challenging situations during operations can have lingering effects, personal concerns and experiences of workplace discrimination — including gender-based factors — also play a role. “We recognized the need to act proactively and invest in prevention.” This collaboration further strengthens existing initiatives, such as internal psychosocial support teams, ensuring that firefighters have access to structured, research-based support for their mental well-being.
