WE SHOULD ALL BE PFAs!

As promised, we are talking about Psychological first aid (PFA) today. This was sparked from the last edition of MAYA where we reflected on the regular building collapses happening in Nigeria, especially Lagos state. In these situations, first aid is very vital, however, psychological first aid is also as important and we are about to find out why.

I heard the term ‘Psychological first aid (PFA) for the first time while I was searching for suitable first aid courses. I eventually took a PFA course on Coursera from John Hopkins University and I was astonished by the knowledge I got.

So, let’s talk…

WHAT IS PFA?

Psychological first aid is a set of skills that can help people in distress to understand and begin to cope with their distress during and immediately after a distressing event. It is a way of helping people to feel calm and able to cope in a difficult situation helping them begin a healthy recovery process sooner.

For example, PFA is vital in helping victims of collapsed buildings, and victims of natural disasters such as tornadoes, earthquakes, flooding, etc.

Psychological first aid is about reducing stress symptoms and assisting in a healthy recovery. Its effectiveness is well-researched and the 3-action process is evidence-based.

WHAT PFA IS…

PFA is about:

• protecting people from further harm
• assessing needs and concerns.
• addressing immediate basic needs, such as food and water, a blanket, etc.
• comforting people in distress and helping them feel safe and calm

WHAT PFA IS NOT…

PFA is not:

• professional counseling or something that only experts can do.
• encouraging a detailed discussion of the event and pressuring someone to share their feelings.
• therapy or professional counseling
• asking someone to break down/analyze what has happened to them.

Your goal is simply to help people feel safer, calmer, more supported, more in control, and more hopeful.

WHO REQUIRES IT?

Psychological first aid is also not a “fix-all” for everyone. In distress events, there will be people who instead need experts, not psychological first aid. The Psychological First Aid Guide by WHO says to look out for the following signs to determine that they need immediate professional help:

• People with serious injuries.
• People who are too upset to take care of themselves or their dependents.
• People who could hurt themselves.
• People who could hurt others.

WHO CAN PERFORM PFA?

Everyone can perform PFA, possibly first responders, volunteers, and the general public. The vital requirement is that they be aware of PFA skills and steps.

Skills required

The exciting fact about PFA is that most people already use PFA skills regularly/daily without realizing it. PFA skills include active listening, providing calm, empathy (non-judgmental help), adequate timing, and focused observation.

THE 3-ACTION STEPS

There are 3 action principles to follow: LOOK, LISTEN, and LINK

LOOK: It is necessary to first assess dangers, as well as safety and security risks, and then obtain information about the event: what has happened and is happening, about those in need of assistance, physical injuries, primary and basic needs, and their emotional responses/reactions.

LISTEN:

1. Approach a person in need of help
2. Introduce yourself
3. Pay attention and listen actively
4. Understand the person's feelings
5. Calm the person in distress
6. Ask deliberate questions about their needs and concerns.
7. Help the person with their immediate needs and try to solve their immediate issue(s).

LINK:

1. Make relevant information and other sources of assistance available.
2. Help them connect or reunite with relatives, and loved ones.

While your help should not be forced and the whole process should be confidential, imagine how much emotional and mental help can be provided to victims which could eventually curtail future problems.

You know what I’ll say next right…LOL

…We should all be PFAs!!!!

See you next edition on 25th, May 2023, I have something really exciting to talk about!