Event Details

Session Title: Stress First Aid Presentation

Summary: The Stress First Aid (SFA) model is a set of practical actions that one could initiate when a person experiences one or more stressful circumstances, which can occur either at work or in the person’s personal life. It’s different from models like critical incident stress management, in that SFA is only initiated if the person is showing evidence of experiencing stress reactions. It’s also different because the stressors could occur at home and only be detected by fellow coworkers because of changes they see in a person’s demeanor or functioning. SFA uses the Stress Continuum Model to create a common language to get conversations started about a person’s stress level and strategies to support them.

Learning Objectives:

1. How SFA can be useful in the work environment or personal lives
2. Raise awareness of how much we are affected by stress, common stressors and stress reactions
3. Reduce stigma about talking about our mental well-being
4. Reduce workplace burnout
5. Use the Stress Continuum Model to create a common language

SHRM BASK: Relationship Management, Communication, Conflict Management, Employee Engagement & Retention, Risk Management

HRCI Functional Area: Employee Engagement, Workforce Planning, Talent Management, HR Information Management, Safety & Security

Presenter Bio: Andrea Gelvin, MEd, EMT, CMA. She is a semi-retired health science teacher. She works seasonally for the BLM-Alaska Fire Service, assisting with EMTs going out to wildfires to look after the firefighters. She continues to teach First Aid-CPR classes to all ages and assists with EMT classes. She was trained in Critical Incident Stress Management in 2008. She has been teaching Mental Health First Aid classes since 2017 and Stress First Aid classes (briefings) since 2021.