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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Community Responder Activities

Provide Social supportEducate about normal and

abnormal stress reactions Train on Stress Management

techniquesMobilize Community Resources 

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Psychological Support

Relieve suffering, both emotional and physical

Improve people’s short term functioning Accelerate the individual’s course of

recovery

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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.

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Essential attributes and skills

Good Listening skills Patient Caring attitude Trustworthy Approachable Culturally competent Empathetic

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Essential attributes and skills

Non-judgmental approach Kind Committed Flexible Able to tolerate chaos

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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_____________

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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

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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

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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

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TRAUMA

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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

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Early intervention

May prevent future problems Helps people to handle problems in a

way that does create MORE problems Promotes resiliency

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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