Explore articles focused on peer support & first responders.
The Hand of Support model is a practical way to map the “trusted layers” of workplace mental health support, from everyday peer and manager help through to professional and crisis services. For HR and WHS leaders, it clarifies who does what, sets safe boundaries, and builds clear escalation and referral pathways that complement psychosocial risk management.
Peer support reduces psychosocial (workplace mental health) risks by providing a trusted, non-clinical way for workers to notice early concerns, talk safely, and take timely next steps such as adjustments, reporting, EAP, or clinical care. In Australia, peer support works best as a supportive control within WHS psychosocial risk management, not a substitute for fixing hazards at their source.
Build a workplace peer support network by defining a clear, non-clinical scope; mapping referral and escalation pathways; selecting and training suitable peer supporters; and putting governance around confidentiality, supervision and minimal record-keeping. Launch with clear communications and manager support, then monitor uptake, **early emotional signals (leading indicators) of distress**, safety signals and quality, and improve the program through regular WHS-style review.
Train workplace mental health first responders by defining a clear, non-clinical role and boundaries, selecting suitable people, and delivering skills-based training in recognising distress, having supportive conversations (for example using LIFT), assessing risk and escalating when needed (ACT), and making safe referrals. Sustain it with supervision and debriefing, refresher practice, privacy and record-keeping rules, and evaluation within your psychosocial risk management system...
Workplace support systems prevent mental health crises by tackling psychosocial hazards early, making emerging distress visible, and giving people clear, trusted pathways to get help before risk escalates. The strongest systems combine psychosocial risk management (identify, assess, control, monitor, review) with manager capability, confidential reporting, suitable support options (including EAP and clinical referrals), safe escalation and critical incident processes, and structured recovery at work.
Peer support in an Australian workplace is a structured, non-clinical support role where trained employees help colleagues through listening, practical problem-framing, and connection to appropriate supports (such as a manager, HR, EAP, GP, or emergency services).
A workplace mental health first responder is a trained, non-clinical peer who provides early, practical support: noticing warning signs, starting a respectful check-in, listening, asking simple safety questions, and connecting the person to appropriate supports (manager, HR/WHS, EAP, GP, crisis services). They do not counsel, diagnose, or manage performance...
Peer support matters because many workers find it easier to speak with a trusted colleague than a manager, HR, or a formal service, especially early in distress. A well-designed peer network provides non-clinical listening, connection, and a pathway to appropriate help...