Psychological First Aid: Coping After an Emergency

It’s no secret that emergencies and security incidents often lead to psychological ramifications, with stress, anxiety, and even PTSD being at the forefront.

Studies show that nearly one-third of those who experience a traumatic incident, such as a severe weather event, will suffer from negative psychological ramifications. Although these incidents can be stress-inducing, you don’t have to live in constant fear, something that involves taking the right steps to coping after a disaster.

This is where psychological first aid comes into play. It can help you cope with the emotional impact of a traumatic event. It’s a practical approach to supporting your mental well-being in the immediate aftermath of a crisis.

While it’s not a substitute for professional treatment, psychological first aid empowers you to manage distress and fosters resilience in adversity. From offering a caring presence to connecting you with social support, psychological first aid is a valuable tool for navigating the challenges that follow an emergency.

Keep reading to learn more about psychological first aid and how it can help you and your family overcome the mental challenges posed by emergencies and disasters.

Key Takeaways

• Psychological First Aid is designed to provide immediate support after a crisis and reduce emotional distress.
• The core principles of PFA focus on establishing connections, ensuring safety, and addressing immediate needs.
• PFA techniques vary by age group, with tailored approaches for children, adults, and older adults.
• Calming exercises like relaxation breathing, finger tracing, and the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique are vital tools in PFA.
• PFA responders can include first responders, healthcare professionals, trained volunteers, and community members.
• Resources like the NCTSN online course, PFA Mobile App, and WHO Field Manual make learning PFA accessible and practical.

What Is Psychological First Aid?

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an evidence-informed approach designed to support individuals in the immediate aftermath of disasters, crises, or traumatic events. Its primary objective is to alleviate initial distress and promote short-term and long-term adaptive functioning.

Rooted in an understanding of trauma, PFA addresses the wide range of reactions, such as physical, psychological, behavioral, and spiritual, that people may experience during and after emergencies.

PFA does not involve professional counseling or psychotherapy but focuses on providing compassionate, practical support to help individuals stabilize and regain a sense of safety and control.

It is delivered by trained responders, including healthcare professionals, community volunteers, and other support personnel, and is tailored to each situation’s needs and context. As you’ll see below, PFA includes several core principles.

Core Principles of Psychological First Aid

Psychological First Aid involves establishing a connection, improving safety, calming overwhelmed survivors, and addressing immediate concerns.

Below are the core principles of Psychological First Aid, each designed to guide responders in offering effective and compassionate support:

Establishing a Human Connection in a Non-Intrusive, Compassionate Manner

Building trust and rapport is fundamental in PFA. Responders must approach survivors in a respectful, empathetic, and non-judgmental way. This involves active listening, understanding their experiences, and avoiding intrusive or overly directive behavior.

Increasing Immediate and Ongoing Safety

Creating a sense of safety is crucial in the aftermath of a disaster. This includes addressing physical safety, such as ensuring survivors are in a secure location, and emotional safety by providing reassurance and a calming presence.

Calming and Orienting Overwhelmed Survivors

Trauma can leave individuals emotionally overwhelmed or disoriented. PFA responders help individuals regain composure by using calming techniques, such as grounding exercises or simple, clear communication, to reduce distress and promote focus.

Addressing Immediate Needs and Concerns

Understanding survivors’ immediate priorities is essential. PFA responders actively listen to survivors’ specific needs and concerns, gathering information to provide tailored and effective support.

Offering Practical Assistance and Information

Practical help can make a significant difference in times of crisis. PFA includes assisting survivors in accessing basic needs such as shelter, medical care, or contacting loved ones. Providing accurate and timely information about available resources is equally important.

Facilitating Connections With Social Support Networks

Social connections are a key factor in coping and recovery. PFA responders assist survivors in reconnecting with family, friends, and community resources. This may include linking individuals to peer support groups or other social support systems.

Supporting Adaptive Coping

A key component of PFA is encouraging survivors to recognize their strengths and empower them to take an active role in their recovery. Acknowledging their efforts and providing guidance on coping strategies fosters resilience.

Providing Useful Information About Psychological Recovery

Educating survivors about common psychological reactions to trauma and offering tips on managing these responses can promote recovery. Sharing information on where to seek professional help is also part of this process.

Now that we know the core principles of Psychological First Aid for trauma recovery, let’s go through a step-by-step tutorial on how to perform PFA.

Core Actions of Psychological First Aid

Psychological First Aid (PFA) involves a set of core actions that can be taken to support someone in the aftermath of a crisis.

These actions are designed to reduce initial distress, foster short-term and long-term adaptive functioning, and link individuals to further support if needed.

Here’s how to perform PFA for managing anxiety after emergencies:

Contact and Engagement

You should approach the person in a non-intrusive and compassionate manner. Introduce yourself, express concern for their well-being, and ask about their immediate needs. You aim to establish a connection and create a safe, welcoming space where they feel comfortable sharing their experiences.

Ensure Safety and Comfort

You can help the person feel safe by identifying a secure location and addressing physical needs, such as offering water, a blanket, or medical attention. Reassure them with calm, supportive communication, and assist in identifying and resolving any urgent concerns that may be causing distress.

Help Stabilize Overwhelmed Individuals

If the person seems emotionally overwhelmed or disoriented, you should guide them toward stabilization. Encourage grounding techniques, such as deep breathing or focusing on the present moment. Suggest simple self-care activities, like taking breaks, eating, or resting, to help them regain composure.

Gather Relevant Information

Ask about their immediate needs, physical health, and safety concerns without being intrusive. Pay attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues, and avoid pressing for details that may retraumatize them. Focus on understanding how you can provide immediate and practical help.

Provide Practical Assistance

You can offer practical help to address urgent concerns. This might include helping them contact family members, locate shelter, or access medical care. Be sure to share accurate, up-to-date information about available resources and services to ease their immediate stress.

Connect Them With Social Supports

You should help the person reconnect with their support network, such as family, friends, or community organizations. If necessary, assist them in reaching out to trusted individuals or linking them with peer support groups and local services for ongoing emotional and practical assistance.

Share Coping Information

Provide information about common stress reactions and reassure them that their experiences are normal in a crisis. You can also offer suggestions for self-care, such as maintaining routines, engaging in relaxation techniques, or seeking emotional support from others.

Link Them to Collaborative Services

If the person requires additional help, you should connect them with appropriate mental health or social services. Provide referrals and assist them in accessing specialized care, ensuring they feel supported throughout the process.

With these steps in mind, who is best suited to provide mental health tips and assistance post-emergency?

Who Can Deliver Psychological First Aid?

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a versatile approach designed to be delivered by a diverse range of individuals, not just mental health professionals. This inclusivity allows many people to provide compassionate support in times of crisis, regardless of their background or formal training.

Below is an overview of the groups that can deliver PFA and their unique roles in offering support.

First Responders

First responders, such as paramedics, firefighters, and police officers, are often trained in PFA as part of their emergency response duties. Positioned at the front lines of crises, they are uniquely equipped to provide immediate support and comfort to survivors during critical moments.

Healthcare Professionals

Nurses, doctors, and other healthcare providers can deliver PFA in medical settings like hospitals or clinics. Their ability to assess patients’ emotional needs, provide reassurance, and connect them with resources ensures survivors receive physical and psychological care.

Disaster Relief Workers

Volunteers from organizations such as the Red Cross or Salvation Army often receive PFA training to support individuals affected by natural disasters or humanitarian crises. These workers provide practical assistance and emotional care, helping survivors navigate the aftermath of devastating events.

Mental Health Providers

Psychologists, social workers, and counselors bring specialized expertise in trauma-informed care to their delivery of PFA. They can provide tailored support, identify individuals needing advanced care, and facilitate referrals to long-term mental health services when necessary.

Trained Lay Persons

Community members, such as teachers, faith leaders, and local volunteers, can also be trained to deliver PFA. Many organizations offer workshops and online courses to equip individuals with the necessary skills to provide empathetic support and practical assistance during crises.

Although many people can offer Psychological First Aid, the techniques used may differ based on age group, as detailed below.

Psychological First Aid Techniques for Different Age Groups

Psychological First Aid (PFA) techniques can and should be tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals based on their age and developmental stage. Understanding each age group’s cognitive abilities, emotional responses, and specific concerns is essential for providing effective and compassionate support.

Below is a guide to PFA techniques for different age groups.

Children and Adolescents

When supporting children and adolescents, use language that is age-appropriate and simple. Avoid technical jargon or overly complex explanations. Speak clearly, reassuring and validating their feelings by letting them know that emotions like fear, sadness, or anger are normal after a traumatic event.

For younger children, create a sense of safety by encouraging comforting activities like playing, drawing, or storytelling. These activities can help them express their emotions in non-verbal ways. Reconnecting children with trusted family members or caregivers is crucial for providing ongoing emotional support.

Adolescents, on the other hand, may require a different approach. Respect their need for privacy and autonomy while offering a listening ear. Encourage them to share their feelings and seek support from trusted individuals, such as friends, family, or counselors. Be mindful of their need for independence but remain available for guidance and emotional support.

Adults

When offering PFA to adults, focus on practical problem-solving and addressing their immediate needs. Help them identify and prioritize their concerns, assisting with tasks like contacting loved ones, arranging shelter, or securing medical care.

Respect their autonomy by allowing them to make decisions about their next steps whenever possible.

Share information about common stress reactions and coping strategies, normalizing their experience while encouraging self-care practices such as rest, hydration, and relaxation techniques. If they express interest in professional support, provide referrals to mental health services or community resources.

Older Adults

Older adults often have specific needs and vulnerabilities following a crisis. Be mindful of sensory impairments, such as hearing or vision loss, and adapt your communication accordingly. Speak slowly and clearly, and provide written materials if necessary.

Consider any mobility limitations or chronic health conditions that may require attention. Assist older adults in accessing medical care, medications, or assistive devices. Connecting them with elder-specific resources, such as senior centers, meal delivery programs, or transportation services, can address practical and emotional needs.

Social isolation can be a significant issue for older adults, particularly if they have lost loved ones or have limited social networks. Encourage them to reconnect with family, friends, or community groups that can provide companionship and ongoing support. Helping them rebuild their sense of connection and belonging is critical to their recovery.

No matter their age group, there are many calming exercises that people can do to help them cope after disaster strikes.

Calming Exercises in Psychological First Aid

Psychological first aid often involves helping someone relax and regain a sense of calm in the aftermath of a crisis. Several simple exercises can be used to induce a relaxation response and reduce stress, including the following:

Relaxation Breathing

This simple but powerful technique helps to calm the body and mind. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your lungs and abdomen to fill with air. As you inhale, silently affirm, “My body is filled with calmness.”

Then, exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing all the air from your lungs while silently thinking, “My body is releasing the tension.” Repeat this pattern for several minutes, focusing on the rhythm and sensation of your breath to create a state of relaxation.

Four Square Breathing

Four square breathing is an easy-to-remember technique that promotes mindfulness and calmness. Begin by inhaling for a count of four, holding your breath for a count of four, exhaling for a count of four, and holding again for a count of four. Repeat this cycle for five to ten rounds, concentrating on the counting and the flow of your breath to center your thoughts.

Finger Tracing With Breathwork

This grounding exercise combines breathing with a tactile component. Place the index finger of one hand on the wrist of your opposite hand. As you inhale, trace your finger up to the tip of your thumb. Pause briefly, then exhale as you trace your finger back down to the wrist.

Continue this pattern with each finger, switching hands once you’ve traced all five fingers. This practice focuses your attention and soothes the nervous system.

Engaging the Senses

Using your senses to observe and interact with your surroundings can promote grounding and reduce stress.

Choose an object nearby and study it closely, noting its colors, shapes, and textures. If possible, touch the object and observe its temperature, weight, or feel. This sensory-focused exercise helps shift attention away from distressing thoughts and anchors you in the present moment.

4-3-2 Grounding Technique

The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique is a simple and effective way to reduce stress and regain focus by engaging your senses. Start by acknowledging five things you see around you, such as objects or colors in your environment.

Next, identify four things you can touch, focusing on textures or temperatures. Then, listen for three things you can hear, like background noises or subtle sounds nearby.

Follow this by noticing two things you can smell, whether it’s the scent of fresh air, a beverage, or your surroundings. Finally, recognize one thing you can taste, such as the flavor of a drink, food, or even your own mouth.

This exercise helps anchor you in the present moment, shifting your attention away from distressing thoughts and calming your mind. It’s a quick and versatile technique that can be repeated as needed, making it ideal for managing anxiety or grounding yourself during overwhelming situations.

Below are various resources to help you learn more about providing PFA for trauma recovery.

Psychological First Aid Training Resources

If you’re interested in learning more about psychological first aid, several reputable organizations offer training and resources, including the following:

Online PFA Courses by NCTSN

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) offers a comprehensive online course on PFA. This self-paced training includes interactive activities, realistic case scenarios, and video demonstrations to help you understand and apply the core principles of PFA. The course is designed to equip participants with practical skills for supporting individuals in various crisis situations.

American Red Cross PFA Program

The American Red Cross provides a PFA training program tailored to address the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This online course teaches participants how to recognize signs of stress in themselves and others, practice effective self-care, and provide emotional support during times of uncertainty.

PFA Mobile App

The PFA Mobile App is an excellent resource for on-the-go learning. Developed by the National Center for PTSD and NCTSN, this free app offers step-by-step guidance for delivering Psychological First Aid. It also includes self-care tips, best practices for supporting others, and links to additional resources for further learning.

WHO PFA Field Manual

The World Health Organization (WHO) has published a detailed PFA Field Manual, offering practical strategies for implementing PFA. The guide covers essential principles, techniques for working with different age groups, and important considerations for cultural sensitivity and special populations. It is an invaluable resource for those who prefer written materials for learning.

Final Thoughts on Using Psychological First Aid for Coping After Disaster Strikes

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an invaluable tool for coping with the emotional aftermath of a crisis or disaster. Its evidence-informed approach focuses on reducing immediate distress, fostering resilience, and empowering individuals to take steps toward recovery.

By addressing immediate needs and emotional challenges, PFA provides a structured way to stabilize individuals and guide them toward long-term adaptive functioning.

From establishing a human connection to offering practical assistance and linking individuals with social support, PFA equips responders with techniques to effectively meet diverse needs. While it is not a replacement for professional mental health services, it is a critical first response that can lay the groundwork for healing.

Emergencies often bring uncertainty, but PFA techniques can help individuals regain a sense of safety, connection, and control. Whether through calming exercises, tailored approaches for different age groups, or thoughtful resources like the PFA Mobile App and WHO Field Manual, PFA offers tangible steps to navigate the emotional challenges of disaster recovery.

In times of crisis, PFA helps individuals and communities recover with confidence, resilience, and hope.

Visit Batten Safe to prepare yourself for any emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Psychological First Aid Different From Professional Therapy?

PFA is a short-term intervention designed for immediate emotional stabilization after a crisis, while therapy is a long-term process focused on deeper psychological healing and growth.

Can Psychological First Aid Be Used in Workplace Settings?

Yes, PFA can be highly effective in workplace emergencies, helping colleagues manage stress and reconnect with social support networks after incidents like layoffs or natural disasters.

Are There Cultural Considerations When Delivering PFA?

Absolutely. Tailoring PFA to the cultural values, language, and norms of the affected population ensures that the support provided is respectful and relevant.

How Can Schools Implement Psychological First Aid for Students?

Schools can train teachers and staff in PFA techniques to help students process traumatic events through age-appropriate language, structured activities, and safe spaces for emotional expression.

What Role Does Technology Play in PFA Delivery?

Tools like the PFA Mobile App provide step-by-step guidance, self-care tips, and resources for responders, making PFA delivery more accessible and effective.

Can Psychological First Aid Help Prevent PTSD?

While PFA does not guarantee the prevention of PTSD, it can mitigate its severity by addressing immediate distress, fostering a sense of safety, and connecting individuals with further support.