Essential Worker Peer Support Program (Helpline for Building Trades, Transit & Health Care Workers)

24/7 confidential peer-to-peer helpline for Manatee County Government's essential workers

Essential workers are critical to our health and safety, but they may put their own mental health needs on hold. Our Medical Insurance provider, Aetna, created the Essential Worker Peer Support Program for the unique needs of building trades, transit and health care workers. They get a direct line to trusted peers who understand what they’re going through and can help them on their path to better health.

Features include:

• 24/7 confidential helpline -- This line is staffed by active and retired essential workers. It offers a path toward therapy for those who fear being labeled or who might not otherwise seek help.
• Confidential therapy referrals -- Members get support in the moment and referrals to network clinicians who have experience working with essential workers.
• Face-to-face engagement -- Retired essential workers promote programs directly to members to create a connection between the program and local resources.
• Mobile app and online resources -- Essential workers can access content created just for them and their families — on their own time, in a safe place.
• Continuing education -- Other resources are available, including live and on-demand training, clinical self-assessment and self-help tools, and outreach communications.

Click here to view/download an informational flyer on Aetna's Essential Worker Peer Support Program