Psychosocial First Aid is the practice of recognising and responding to people experiencing crisis-related stress and can be used to help one’s own self and, of course, others to cope in the face of stressful events.
WHY PSYCHOSOCIAL FIRST AID?
Most people do not understand what Psychosocial First Aid is all about and mistake PSFA for actual physical first aid.
When a crisis, emergency or disaster occurs, the impact may not affect someone immediately and therefore Responders may not be called upon until days after the incident or they could be asked to assist with defusing emotional situations, which would distract those front-line workers from completing their tasks. Removing anxious or distraught individuals from a scene and having PSFA Responders on hand is about comforting someone who is in distress and helping them feel safe and calm.
It is Bermuda Red Cross’ intent to educate and advocate to all agencies and organisations to consider including PSFA in their Disaster Plan and create community teams to help with smaller incidents.
Please email education@bermudaredross.com for more details and course offerings.
CALL: 236-8253 ext 3