At the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), caring for people who care for others is a priority. The Peer Support Program provides confidential emotional support for employees who have experienced a difficult or traumatic event in the workplace.
Through this program, trained peers offer compassionate support, help individuals process stressful experiences, and connect them with additional resources when needed. The goal is to help employees stabilize, recover, and feel supported by their colleagues.
Employees or teams may seek Peer Support after challenging situations such as:
Peer Support is available to employees across MUSC, and individuals or leaders may request support for themselves or their teams.
MUSC also offers Stress First Aid (SFA) training to help employees recognize and respond to stress in themselves and their colleagues.
This evidence-based program teaches practical tools to:
Leaders play a critical role in shaping a culture where people feel supported. Stress First Aid for Leaders provides managers with practical strategies to recognize stress within their teams, respond early, and connect employees with available well-being resources.
By increasing awareness and encouraging supportive conversations, leaders can help create psychologically safe workplaces where employees feel valued and supported.
Andrew Bacon, MSN, RN, Program Manager, Stress First Aid and Peer Support
The Center for Workplace Well-being
bacona@musc.edu
Orange Huddle is MUSC’s centralized support process for employees experiencing distress or mental health concerns. Referrals can be made for yourself, a colleague, or a team. After a referral is submitted, the Center for Workplace Well-being connects individuals to the most appropriate support services, which may include peer support, well-being clinician sessions, EAP services, or emergency services when needed.
