Author(s):
Lena Deller-Wessels, Jens Noppeney & Robert Steinhauser



Title:
On-Scene Peer Support in Emerging Acute Stress Reactions

Abstract:
In the course of their duties, emergency responders can regularly be confronted with highly stressful events, some of which may trigger acute stress reactions (ASRs). These may temporarily impair perception, decision-making, and action capacity. Whereas in Germany established concepts of psychosocial emergency care for first responders (PSNV-E) are primarily oriented towards post-deployment measures, there remains a conceptual gap regarding interventions during ongoing operations, particularily in nonmilitary settings. The present article addresses this gap and focuses on the short-term stabilization and restoration of functional capacity in cases of ASR during operational deployment. Drawing on existing military models of peer-based intervention, including YaHaLOM, iCOVER, and BESSER, an adapted action framework is developed for civilian emergency response organizations. The simplified and practice-oriented acronym KLAR, which comprises contact (Kontakt aufnehmen), clarification of the situation (Lage klären), structuring the sequence of events (Ablauf ordnen), and return to action (Rückkehr zur Handlung), is proposed as a structured brief intervention delivered by peers. The model aims to modulate the initial stress response and to support the rapid restoration of operational functioning without removing responders from their role or pathologizing their reaction. It is intended as a complement to existing PSNV-E structures and measures, and is particularily suited to civilian operational contexts, which are characterized by heterogeneous levels of training and relatively infrequent exposure to critical incidents.

S. 25-36