Parents, healthcare professionals, social workers, educators, and volunteers in Sharjah are receiving training in Psychological First Aid (PFA). According to a senior official, individuals who have undergone this training can utilize their skills in various scenarios, including accidents, medical emergencies, natural disasters such as floods or earthquakes, and incidents involving violence or trauma.
"The skills acquired in our workshops enable individuals to offer immediate psychological support at the scene of an incident, whether it's a minor accident at home or a larger community disaster. These skills are also applicable in schools, workplaces, and other settings where people might experience distress or trauma," explained Hanadi Al Yafei, director of the Child Safety Department (CSD), in an interview with Khaleej Times. CSD, an entity affiliated with the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah, recently conducted a PFA workshop at Al Suyoh Suburb Council.
"PFA is a structured, compassionate, and practical method designed to assist individuals experiencing psychological distress in the immediate aftermath of an accident, disaster, or traumatic event. It aims to lessen the emotional impact of such experiences, provide comfort, and offer initial support to alleviate anxiety, fear, or confusion. PFA can be applied in various contexts, including accidents, natural disasters, medical emergencies, and situations involving violence or loss," the official added.
According to Dr. Bana Bouzaboon, head of Mental Health at the Kanaf Centre, psychological trauma from accidents and disasters often leaves a profound impact on affected individuals. "However, not all cases necessitate intervention by psychological specialists. Training professionals in various fields, such as community healthcare and education, in providing PFA is essential. This approach allows the community to offer initial psychological support, thereby reducing the need for specialized therapeutic interventions, except in cases where they are absolutely necessary."
Survivors of accidents and disasters may exhibit a range of psychological issues, including acute stress, anxiety, fear, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many may also feel overwhelmed, confused, or disoriented in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event. "Other common reactions include withdrawal, social isolation, mood swings, or feelings of helplessness. Early intervention through PFA can significantly mitigate the risk of these issues becoming long-term problems," Hanadi noted.
Psychological first-aid is administered through a calm, empathetic, and supportive approach. The individual providing the aid ensures that the affected person feels safe, understood, and comforted. "Professionals and trained individuals recognize that someone needs PFA by identifying signs of distress, such as confusion, fear, anxiety, withdrawal, or panic. Physical symptoms, like shaking, sweating, or difficulty breathing, can also indicate a need for support. The key is to act promptly and provide a sense of security and stability."
PFA is crucial in settings like schools, healthcare facilities, and communities affected by crises. "Anyone trained in the principles of PFA can offer it … The objective is to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to provide this immediate support before professional psychological interventions are required," said Hanadi. The workshops cover a comprehensive range of topics designed to equip participants with the tools they need to provide psychological support. "Key lessons include how to recognize the signs of psychological distress, active listening, and effective communication. We teach participants how to assess the emotional state of individuals, provide comfort, and offer practical assistance without overwhelming the affected person. Importantly, we also discuss when to refer individuals for further psychological intervention and how to maintain privacy and dignity while offering support."
If a victim does not receive psychological first-aid when needed, the emotional and psychological impact of the traumatic event may worsen. "Unaddressed distress can lead to chronic psychological problems, including depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD. Additionally, unresolved trauma can negatively affect relationships, work, and daily functioning. Early psychological support is vital for helping individuals process their experiences and recover, reducing the risk of these complications," concluded Hanadi.
