Psychological First Aid for Children

Psychological First Aid (PFA) for Children is an evidence-informed approach for assisting children and youths in the aftermath of a crisis, disaster, or terrorism event. It is a basic, non-intrusive pragmatic approach that focuses on listening, but not forcing to talk. It assesses one's needs and ensures that their basic needs are met. At the same time, it also encourages company from significant others, and protects children and youth from experiencing any further harm (The Sphere Project, 2004).

The principles of PFA, which promote a sense of safety, self, and community efficacy/empowerment, connectedness, calm, and hope (Hobfoll, 2007), are supported by evidence that a lack of social support is associated with poorer outcomes. Based on a World Health Organisation-commissioned systematic review of PFA in 2009 (Bisson & Lewis), there is extensive evidence of expert consensus that the provision of support based on the principles of PFA, should be considered with people in acute distress after recent exposure to a traumatic event.

Given that providing basic psychological first aid for people in acute psychological distress does not require advanced knowledge, it is recommended that the principles of PFA can be easily taught to workers who have no training in mental health (IASC, 2007).

The Psychosocial Trauma Support Service in KKH offers a PFA for Children Training Programme to individuals in Singapore. This is a 1-day training programme, where participants will be equipped with the skills to provide practical support to children and youths in the immediate aftermath of crises.

Learning objectives

• Learn the World Health Organisation model for PFA (Look, Listen, Link)
• Pick up signs of distress in children and their caregivers
• Assist children and caregivers in distress
• Gain knowledge of relevant resources for children and youth

Who should apply?

• Anyone interested in providing practical support to children and youth in the immediate aftermath of crises
• No counselling experience required

Our trainers

• Ms Elaine Chua
• Ms Michelle Ho
• Dr Quah Saw Han
• Ms Jolie Tan
• Ms Geraldine Yang-Peterson

For more information about the course, or to register your interest, please email us.

References

Bisson, J.I. & Lewis, C. (2009). Systematic Review of Psychological First Aid. Commissioned by the World Health Organization.

Hobfoll, S.E. et al. (2007). Five essential elements of immediate and mid-term mass trauma intervention: empirical evidence. Psychiatry, 70, 283-315.

Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC). (2007). IASC Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings. Geneva: IASC.
http://www.who.int/mental_health/emergencies/guidelines_iasc_mental_health_psychosocial_june_2007.pdf

Sphere Project. (2004). Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response. Geneva: Sphere Project. http://www.sphereproject.org/handbook

WHO. (2003). Mental Health in Emergences: Mental and Social Aspects of Health of Populations Exposed to Extreme Stressors. Geneva: World Health Organization.