The primary goal of Psychological First Aid (PFA) is to provide immediate support and assistance to individuals affected by traumatic events to promote their mental and emotional well-being.
While traditional medical first aid focuses on physical injuries, Psychological First Aid addresses the emotional and psychological needs of individuals experiencing distress or trauma.
Key principles of Psychological First Aid include promoting safety, calmness, connectedness, self-efficacy, and hope in individuals affected by crisis or trauma.
Psychological First Aid can be administered by trained professionals such as mental health professionals, counselors, social workers, or by individuals with basic training in psychological support techniques.
Psychological First Aid can help mitigate the psychological impact of disasters or emergencies by providing timely support, reducing distress, and facilitating resilience and coping strategies among affected individuals and communities.