How can disaster response plans integrate psychological first aid?

1 What is PFA?

PFA is a set of principles and practices that aim to reduce distress and enhance coping in people who have been exposed to a potentially traumatic event. PFA is not a form of therapy or diagnosis, but rather a humane and supportive way of helping someone in need. PFA can be delivered by anyone who has received basic training, and does not require specialized skills or equipment. PFA can be applied in various settings and situations, such as shelters, hospitals, schools, or community centers.

2 How does PFA work?

PFA is based on the core actions of providing safety, comfort, connection, information, and empowerment that can be tailored to the person receiving PFA and the context and culture of the situation. For example, PFA activities may involve helping someone find a secure place to stay with basic necessities such as food, water, and clothing. Additionally, PFA may involve offering emotional support and listening to their concerns without judgement or pressure. It could also include helping someone contact their family or friends and facilitating access to other services and resources. Furthermore, PFA involves providing accurate information about the disaster and response, as well as correcting any rumors or misinformation. Finally, PFA may involve helping someone identify their strengths and coping strategies while encouraging them to take positive actions to address their needs and goals.

3 Why is PFA important?

PFA is important because it can help reduce the immediate and long-term psychological effects of a disaster, such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, or substance abuse. PFA can also help prevent or minimize secondary stressors, such as loss of livelihood, displacement, or social isolation. PFA can foster a sense of hope and empowerment, and enhance the capacity of individuals and communities to cope and recover from a disaster.

4 How can PFA be integrated into disaster response plans?

Integrating PFA into disaster response plans requires key steps, such as developing a policy and protocol that aligns with national and local frameworks, training PFA providers on the principles and skills, coordinating and collaborating with other stakeholders, and monitoring and evaluating the quality of PFA activities. This policy should define the objectives, scope, roles, and responsibilities of PFA providers. It should also include ethical and cultural considerations, safety measures, and feedback for PFA providers and beneficiaries. Doing so will ensure a comprehensive and integrated approach to PFA delivery.

5 What are some challenges and opportunities for PFA integration?

Integrating PFA can present some challenges, such as limited awareness of its importance and benefits, as well as lack of resources and capacity to train and deploy PFA providers. Additionally, accessing and reaching the most vulnerable and marginalized groups may be difficult due to their specific needs and barriers to PFA. There is also risk of causing harm or violating the rights of those receiving PFA if it is not delivered in a respectful, sensitive, and ethical manner. However, integrating PFA can also offer some opportunities, such as enhancing the quality of disaster response by addressing holistic needs, strengthening resilience and recovery by promoting mental health, improving coordination and collaboration among different actors, and leveraging existing resources in local communities.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?