Resuscitation Council: Responder Wellbeing with Matt Walton

World Extreme Medicine Podcast

In today's episode we delve into the critical topic of responder wellbeing. We are joined by Matt Walton who offers insights into the psychological support often lacking in the field and the importance of acknowledging the impact of traumatic events on responders. Among the issues we'll be discussing are the prevalence of PTSD symptoms, the effects of night shifts, and the role of leadership in protecting mental health. Our guests also share personal experiences and provide valuable tips for preserving wellbeing amidst the stress of resuscitation efforts. Additionally, we explore the Resuscitation Council Wellbeing Resource, a comprehensive guide developed to support responders. So, join us as we navigate the complex world of responder wellbeing and delve into meaningful discussions that shed light on this critical aspect of emergency medicine.

Matt is a Doctor working in A+E in Newcastle with an interest in pre-hospital care and wilderness medicine.

Matt has focussed most of his medical career on promoting public campaigns to support frontline staff wellbeing and resilience. He studied medicine at Cambridge University and developed amateur filmmaking skills, subsequently creating a documentary on Responder Wellbeing for the BBC.

He last spoke with WEM from the COVID front line in London following the release of an academic paper for the European Heart Journal guiding support for staff mental health. Matt has just led the creation of the first ever Resuscitation Council UK Responder Wellbeing Resource, which we will discuss in the podcast.

Matt also instructs on the diploma in mountain medicine and the World Extreme Medicine Expedition & Wilderness medicine courses. He has recently travelled to high altitude with WEM and Bear Grylls to make a Netflix film.