ACEP ID:

Peer to Peer Support

Peer to Peer Support

Be the lifeline your peers deserve

ACEP is committed to the well-being of all emergency physicians, and to reducing the stigma and liability associated with asking for help. Learn more about our new training opportunities to support your EM peers or to establish a peer support program within your group.

Upcoming Training Immediate Support

About the Training

A career in emergency medicine is mentally and physically demanding. Shiftwork, chronic stress, cumulative trauma, lawsuits, adverse outcomes, medical errors, and life responsibilities all contribute to significant emotional strain. However, physicians often hesitate to seek professional support due to concerns about confidentiality, negative career impact, and difficulty finding therapists who understand their unique experiences.

While professional mental health support remains essential, peer support is a powerful, effective strategy that helps break down barriers to seeking help. Emergency physician peers understand the job’s challenges firsthand and, with proper training, can provide confidential, judgment-free support that helps colleagues better manage and prevent the escalation of symptoms.

Evidence-Based Approach
Training explores key mental health factors affecting emergency physicians and equips participants with essential peer-support skills.

Real-Time Practice
Participants engage in live practice with trained actors simulating real-life scenarios. The structured sessions allow for pausing, feedback, and skill refinement in a safe environment.

Focus on Empathy & Active Listening
The four-hour session emphasizes empathy-driven conversations, not peer treatment. Participants learn how to:

  • Recognize distress and respond appropriately.
  • Structure peer-to-peer discussions effectively.
  • Provide follow-up resources to connect peers with appropriate support.
  • Create a culture of trust that reduces stigma and fosters well-being.

This is more than just training
It’s a movement to empower emergency physicians to navigate the systemic challenges affecting their well-being. Join us in reshaping the future of emergency physician support—one peer conversation at a time.

Check out the opportunities below to see how this transformative training will equip you with the skills to support your peers and enhance your well-being.

 

Upcoming Training Opportunities

ACEP25 – Salt Lake City, UT
September 7-10, 2025 • Salt Palace Convention Center

Accelerate26 – More information about location and dates to come soon.

Enroll for a Training Session

Immediate Support & Resources

Need Help for Yourself?

  • National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988 (Available 24/7/365)
  • Physician Support Line: 1 (888) 409-0141 (M-F 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM ET, Free & Confidential)

Want to Talk?

  • Connect with a Support Giver: Call or Text "ACEP" to 858-367-3001

Questions? Contact Us End the Silence (PDF)

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