Recognizing that staff and volunteers responding to vulnerable populations may face mental health challenges due to exposure to risks and stressful conditions, Red Cross Red Crescent National Societies must prioritize their well-being by establishing caring for staff and volunteer mechanisms or support systems.
This responsibility is outlined in Resolution 2: Addressing mental health and psychosocial needs of people affected by armed conflicts, natural disasters and other emergencies, and adopted in the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement policy.
Listen to the PS Centre MHPSS Technical Advisors explain why caring for staff and volunteers is a key priority for the Movement in the video and podcasts below.
In leading with care, the protection and promotion of the mental health and psychosocial well-being of staff and volunteers is a priority. And it starts with you!
As Red Cross Red Crescent staff and volunteers provide support for vulnerable populations in stressful situations, it is critical that they take care of themselves – because – “no one can pour from an empty cup”. The resources below guide self-care activities. For more inspiration, follow the PS Centre social media accounts for weekly self-care activities.
Stay connected with psychosocial support and the latest news and events
The IFRC Psychosocial Centre (PS Centre) contributes knowledge and provides service to the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. It assists in facilitating mental health and psychosocial support, promotes psychosocial wellbeing for affected groups, staff and volunteers, and increases awareness of psychological reactions in times of crisis or social disruption.
The PS Centre is hosted and supported by Danish Red Cross. It receives financial support from a number of National Societies, institutional and private donors including the European Commission and DANIDA.
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