Psychological First Aid:
Introduction
This training course and test for psychological first aid is aimed at anyone who wants to be prepared to help people in shock following a major incident such as an explosion, major accident, or natural disaster.
Psychological first aid is a set of protocols and actions that an individual can take to help others who may be suffering from psychological trauma. It’s not medical training, it’s aimed at anyone who might come into contact with traumatised people, and it’s recommended that every one of us should be aware of the step suggested within this article.
Remember that PFA is not professional mental health care; it’s about providing immediate emotional support and connecting survivors with resources during a crisis. Laypeople often perform PFA, guided by principles such as ensuring safety, connection, hopefulness, access to support, and self-reliance
The training is split over several pages, and at the end of the final page there is a test, with the ability to print and download a certificate of completion.
It is not formal training. We will not be collecting your name or any information that you enter at this point. However, we have a future strategy of providing a range of training courses, and at some point, we think you might like to have a certificate collection, and we may look into how best to offer that.
What is Psychological First Aid (PFA)?
Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a systematic set of helping actions designed to reduce initial post-trauma distress, aid support and long-term adaptive functioning. It serves as an initial component of a comprehensive disaster or trauma response. PFA focuses on providing immediate support to individuals affected by traumatic events, aiming to increase their coping abilities.
Core Components of PFA
PFA consists of eight core actions:
- Contact and Engagement: Establishing initial contact with affected individuals.
- Safety and Comfort: Ensuring their safety and providing comfort.
- Stabilization: Helping stabilize their emotional state.
- Information Gathering: Collecting relevant information.
- Practical Assistance: Offering practical help.
- Connection with Social Supports: Linking them with social resources.
- Information on Coping Support: Providing coping strategies.
- Linkage with Collaborative Services: Referring them to appropriate professional mental health care if needed.
History of Psychological First Aid
The concept of PFA was introduced in the mid-20th century but gained significant traction as a disaster response after the 9/11 era. Mental health experts widely endorse and advocate for PFA as an early intervention for disaster survivors. It is akin to physical first aid, where laypeople provide basic grassroots psychological support to family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues following traumatic events.
Who Should Consider PFA Training?
PFA benefits anyone who has survived or witnessed a traumatic event, regardless of age or gender. Crisis events that could benefit from PFA include natural disasters, war, terrorist attacks, disease outbreaks, displacement, robbery, and assault.
Continue with the Training?
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