Wisdom, Wellbeing, and Peer Support Training (WWPST) provides a comprehensive approach to fostering skills for healthcare professionals and support personnel dedicated to providing quality care to patients and families. This three-tiered training program is designed to build the capacity for resilience and peer support at the individual, workplace/practice setting, and institution levels.
Tier 1: Individual awareness. All workers in health care settings can increase awareness and skills to develop insights and perspectives that foster resilience and peer support, including the early recognition of potential stress injury in a peer or loved one. Online, self-paced learning modules are available by clicking THIS LINK and registering on the Wisdom & Wellbeing Training page. Free CE credit may be claimed after completing each of the four modules.
Tier 2 (builds on the basic concepts from Tier 1):
Workplace & Work Unit Peer Support Champion. This 4-hour training is for self-selected or manager selected team members who are interested in serving as a skilled resource or peer support champions for their colleagues and team. The training builds on the Tier 1 knowledge and skills to assess for gaps in resources and strengthen approaches that foster a peer support network in the workplace setting. These individuals can also become part of a regional (even national!) peer support network.
Leaders. A 2-hour training for health care leaders is available for those who have completed the Tier 1 Wisdom & Wellbeing Introduction and have an understanding of the main concepts. Leaders can expect to gain knowledge about wisdom communication skills, promoting the well-being of their team, and responding to stress injuries. Additionally, tools and resources are provided that equip leaders to address system-based stressors.
Tier 3: Institutional Commitment to Peer Support. Through a Train-the-Trainer (T3) program for an organization and its workplace/work unit teams, leaders can develop advanced WWPST skills, resources and develop a capacity building plan of action for the organization/institution.
How do I become a Peer Support Champion?
If you are interested in supporting the well-being of your team members, you should consider becoming a Wisdom & Wellbeing Peer Support Champion! A Peer Champion needs to know the basic concepts and the vocabulary of Stress First Aid and wisdom practices. As a peer, you can appreciate the strengths and challenges of your colleagues, understand what may help in the moment, and recognize when additional support needs to be requested. The goals of the Tier 2 Wisdom & Wellbeing Peer Support Training include:
- Develop an increased awareness and knowledge of resources to help those in distress;
- Identify gaps in stress support resources on your unit and learn ways to fill them; and
- Promote peer support within your work sphere, receive ongoing training refreshers, and be part of a network of peer supporters.