Counselling services available at Fire and Emergency

Employee Assistance Programme providers have changed. Please refer to the Seek Safety, Health and Wellbeing support  page for current support services.

After 2020 we had hoped things might calm down, however 2021 is starting off with a rollercoaster, and not necessarily one of the fun ones.

As we continue to feel the impact of the changes in Alert Levels and uncertainty that brings, it is important to recognise that it is ok to feel tired and fatigued by Covid-19, it has even been recognised as a real phenomenon in the health profession, so you are not alone.

We all experience things in different ways and feeling anxious or worried about a global pandemic is certainly understandable. Knowing this is an important step in making sure you are looking after yourself.

Some of the early warning signs to look out for that may indicate you are not feeling your normal self are changes in your behaviour such as being more irritable, more quieter/louder than usual, or having trouble sleeping. These can be early warning signs that you need a little extra help.

You know yourself the best and what a normal good or bad day looks like. On those bad days it can be helpful to take some time out for yourself and focus on things that help lift your mood and lighten the load a little. It can also be helpful to talk to someone, whether that is a friend, work colleague, or a counsellor.

As well as just taking some of the weight off your shoulders, Counsellors are trained to help unpick what you are feeling and work with you to develop strategies to navigate the emotions you are experiencing. The following services are available at Fire and Emergency, and will direct you to a Counsellor:

EAP Services – on 0800 327 669 or at eapservices.co.nz

Vitae - 0508 664 981 or at vitae.co.nz (external link)

For more information check out the seeking SHW support page.(external link)