module 1- psychological support module 1 psychological support 2 acknowledgements this training...
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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