Addressing these psychological challenges is crucial for the well-being of aid workers and the effectiveness of humanitarian efforts. Support systems such as buddy systems or peer-to-peer support groups, debriefing sessions, and adequate resources play pivotal roles in mitigating the impact of survivor guilt and moral injury
– Arz Stephan, MHPSS Technical Advisor
In this episode of Heartbeat of Humanity, Communications Officer Jesper Guhle interviews MHPSS Technical Advisors Arz Stephan and Anna Goloktionova about the concepts of ‘survivor guilt’ and ‘moral injury’ and how they impact people – especially Red Cross and Red Crescent staff and volunteers who often are among first responders when a crisis hit.
In a time where people, either in person or on social media, are witnessing many devastating armed conflicts in Armenia, Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine – to mention a few, as well as one environmental crisis after another with earthquakes and floods – understanding these concepts can help protect our mental health and navigate feelings of powerlessness and hopelessness.
The podcast Heartbeat of Humanity is mainly for staff and volunteers in the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, especially staff and volunteers working in mental health and psychosocial support services.
Listen to the podcast here or subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast or wherever you find your podcasts.