The Black Dog Institute (BDI) provides a National Emergency Worker Support Service developed by leading mental health specialists, to support emergency workers including wildlife rescuers and carers.
This government funded service is available for free nationally, to emergency workers and volunteers both active and retired.
The program evolved from BDI's critical ‘Bushfire Support Service‘ launched in 2020 and provides invaluable mental health and wellbeing support for the wildlife sector, recognising the important work of wildlife rescuers and carers as emergency service providers.
Emergency workers can face a disproportionate amount of trauma, and WIRES recommends volunteers and staff working in the wildlife sector, utilise the BDI National Emergency Worker Support Service for mental health support.
If you, or any emergency workers you know, need mental health or wellbeing assistance, you can find out more via the resources below.
National Emergency Worker Support Service
Mental Health Check
Check-in to see how you’re going and get recommended free evidence-based support options based on your assessment results.
Connect directly with leading mental health specialists via telehealth or face-to-face. No referral, Medicare, or GP information is required.
Managing Distress When Caring for Wildlife
Find out more about long-term strategies to improve health and wellbeing, including strategies for managing depression post natural disasters.
More Resources
Browse free evidence-based mental health resources, tools, information and advice for emergency service workers.
Please note that you must be 18 years or over to use these services. For young people under the age of 18, there are a range of specific resources and fact sheets available to guide and support your mental health.
Crisis Support
BDI is not a crisis centre and cannot provide crisis support.
If you or someone you know needs immediate emergency help, please call 000.
