Understanding Psychological First Aid: Basics and Benefits

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an evidence-informed approach designed to reduce the initial distress caused by traumatic events and support long-term adaptive functioning. It is not counselling—it is immediate emotional support offered during or soon after a crisis.

Core Principles of PFA

PFA is based on five essential principles that promote emotional stability and safety:

• Safety: Ensuring the person is physically and emotionally safe.
• Calming: Helping the person reduce distress and regain control.
• Connectedness: Linking them with supportive people and resources.
• Self-efficacy: Empowering them to make decisions and feel capable.
• Hope: Encouraging optimism and belief in recovery.

Steps of Psychological First Aid (LDR Model)

• LOOK: Observe for people who are distressed, in shock, or unsafe.
• LISTEN: Approach calmly, ask about needs, and listen without judgement.
• LINK: Connect them to support, medical help, family, or safety resources.

What PFA Is Not

• Not diagnosing mental illness
• Not forcing the person to talk about trauma
• Not giving advice or telling them what to do
• Not long-term counselling

Benefits of Psychological First Aid

• Reduces emotional shock and anxiety
• Prevents long-term trauma reactions
• Enhances safety and stability
• Helps people regain problem-solving abilities
• Encourages resilience and hope
• Strengthens trust and connection in crisis situations

தமிழில் – Psychological First Aid (PFA) என்றால் என்ன?

How Emocare Trains You in PFA

• Real-life role-plays
• Crisis communication models
• Child, adult & trauma-sensitive PFA techniques
• Certification & supervised practice

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