HUMANITARIAN PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT

Definitions

    Traditional Mental Health Services

    Psychological Support
   
        Disaster Mental Health
        Psychological First Aid

Two Pioneers

    Mary Petevi
    Jon Hubbard

Seven Principles for Designing Programs

    Based on

        Community Psychology
        Cognitive-behavioral Psychology

    Do No Harm
    Interventions Must Be Community-based
    Interventions Must Be Sustainable
    Build on Community Strengths
    Use Local Expertise
    Address Ordinary Reactions to Extraordinary
    Events
    Support for Every Individual

Eight Principles to Guide Providers

    Be Flexible
    Be Supportive
    Be Soothing
    Use Direct Guidance at Times
    Be an Advocate
    Educate
    Make Referrals as Needed
    Be Present to Clients

International Federation of Red Cross / Red Crescent Societies

    Psychological First Aid as a Model for National Support Programs

    Shaped to Individual Country

        Needs Assessment
        Consultation – Adaptation
    
Example

    2001 Earthquake in Bhuj, India

DISCUSSION:

➢    How can we determine the effectiveness of psychological first aid and other support programs given the unusual conditions and contexts in which they are implemented?

➢    What are the ethical dilemmas and guidelines for psychologists working internationally?