Module 1- Psychological Support

Module 1 Psychological Support 2 Acknowledgements This training program is an adaptation of “Community-Based Psychological Support” developed by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The following citation is recommended for this curriculum: Zagurski, R., Bulling, D., Chang, R. (2005). Nebraska Psychological First Aid Curriculum. Lincoln, NE: University of Nebraska Public Policy Center. Special Acknowledgement is made to the reviewers: Anthony Ng, M.D. Gilbert Reyes, Ph.D.

Module 1 Psychological Support 3 Learning Objectives  Describe the purpose of psychological support  Describe the role of community responders in the provision of psychological support  Describe the basic principles involved in the implementation of a psychological support program in a disaster situation

Module 1 Psychological Support 4 Consequences of Critical Events like Disaster often include LOSS Loss of loved ones Loss of material goods Loss of employment/income Loss of social cohesion Loss of dignity, trust and safety Loss of positive self-image Loss of trust in the future

Module 1 Psychological Support 5 Activity # 1 – What if I lost… Give out 3 blue, 3 green and 3 white index cards - each person will get 9 total cards. On each card: Blue cards - write the name of a person close to you on each card Green cards - write down one of your favorite belongings White cards - write down something you enjoy, an activity, or hobby. After you have written on each card, place them face down on the table and shuffle them around. Close your eyes and pick three cards. These are the three things you will have lost in a disaster. Discuss with the group how you feel about losing these things or people

Module 1 Psychological Support 6 Role of Disaster Mental Health Primarily directed toward “normal” people who are responding normally to an abnormal situation Identifying those at risk for severe social or psychological impairment

Module 1 Psychological Support 7 Community Responder Activities Provide Social support Educate about normal and abnormal stress reactions Train on Stress Management techniques Mobilize Community Resources

Module 1 Psychological Support 8 Relieve suffering, both emotional and physical Improve people’s short term functioning Accelerate the individual’s course of recovery

Module 1 Psychological Support 9 Activity # 2 - Brainstorming What main attributes and skills should a volunteer have when offering psychological support? Spend 5 minutes brainstorming and writing down those characteristics which are likely to be required.

Module 1 Psychological Support 10 Essential attributes and skills Good Listening skills Patient Caring attitude Trustworthy Approachable Culturally competent Empathetic

Module 1 Psychological Support 11 Essential attributes and skills Non-judgmental approach Kind Committed Flexible Able to tolerate chaos

Module 1 Psychological Support 12 Basic principals of Psychological Support Do no harm Community-based approach Recognizes and uses indigenous healing networks and practices Uses trained volunteers Empowers Encourages Community participation Exercises Care with terminology Encourages Active involvement Values Early intervention Uses Viable interventions

Module 1 Psychological Support 13 Community-based Approach Builds on local resources Allows for trained volunteers to mentor untrained volunteers Focuses on strengthening groups and networks Community involvement improves the response

Module 1 Psychological Support 14 Indigenous Healing Networks and Practices Provide education, support and a framework for customs and traditions in trauma and loss Understand that stress and grief are all expressed differently by different cultures Provide assistance in understanding what is sacred.

Module 1 Psychological Support 15 Trained Community Responders Trained Community Responders can provide: Basic psychological skills to help victims of crisis, shock and loss Ready cultural insights into the community

Module 1 Psychological Support 16 Activity # 3 – Stranger in a Strange Land In order to get assistance from the relief agency, you must first read and sign this form: Nuair a shroicheann tú imeall gach arbh eol duit, Ní mór duit ceann de dhá rud a chreidiúint Go mbeidh talamh ann le seasamh air nó go mbronnfar sciatháin chun eitilte ort. Signature____________________ Date_____________

Module 1 Psychological Support 17 Empowerment Over-helping can be humiliating and/or create passivity Quality relief and assistance is based on helping others to gain self-respect and autonomy (empowerment) Abilities and strengths of the recipient are as important as their problems High degree of community participation enhances empowerment

Module 1 Psychological Support 18 Community Participation Promotes empowerment and local ownership Helps restore control over their own lives as well as the life of the community Mobilizes collective strengths to restore natural community networks Helps reintegrate individuals and families within their communities

Module 1 Psychological Support 19 Care with terminology Words can have a powerful effect on situations Blanket statements are often misleading or false “trauma” is a clinical term. It does not promote healing The concept of an “Active survivor” can enhance empowerment

Module 1 Psychological Support 20 TRAUMA

Module 1 Psychological Support 21 Active Involvement Focus on strengths rather than symptoms and deficits Identify and strengthen coping mechanisms Actively involve the person in helping to sort out their problems

Module 1 Psychological Support 22 Early intervention May prevent future problems Helps people to handle problems in a way that does create MORE problems Promotes resiliency

Module 1 Psychological Support 23 Translation of Activity # 3 When you come to the edge of all that you know, You must believe in one of two things; There will be earth on which to stand, Or you will be given wings. Anonymous