Hjördis Lorenz
Doctorate
Doctorate Title: Improving Wellbeing in Student Paramedics: Targeting Risk Factors and Predictors of PTSD
Doctorate Description: Student paramedics are at an increased risk of developing mental health problems compared to the general population due to the nature of their work. They are especially at high risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a severe stress reaction that can occur after exposure to traumatic events. To date, interventions aimed at reducing poor mental health or preventing the risk of PTSD in this population have not been very effective. Evidence-based interventions are urgently needed.
This doctorate aims to address poor mental health in student paramedics. First, by evaluating a tool to improve wellbeing and reduce psychological distress. Second, by targeting factors relevant to the development of PTSD with a specific focus on assessing and understanding rumination, a risk factor for PTSD, and modifying responses to intrusive memories, a predictor of PTSD.
The results of this thesis contribute to our understanding of factors that may influence the wellbeing and mental health of student paramedics. A better understanding of these factors may, in the future, help to inform targeted PTSD prevention for student paramedics and emergency workers more broadly.
Details:
Type: PhD
University: University of Oxford
Primary Supervisor: Dr. Jennifer Wild
Category: Mental Health
Funding: The Colt Foundation, DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), The Christian Community, Berlin
Start Date: 2016
End Date: 2020
Status: Complete
Thesis
ThesisResearch Interests
PTSD, PTSD prevention, paramedic mental health, emergency worker mental health
Publications
Publications
Paramedic PhD is endorsed by:
