The 10-day Psychological First Aid (PFA) Training program conducted by WASSA’s professional trainers aimed to equip psychological counselors, aid workers, and staff from UNHCR Partner Organizations (CHA, AWSDC, ARRAA, OSED, WAW) with essential skills to provide immediate support to individuals affected by trauma or crisis situations. The training, held at Tejarat Hotel in Herat, Afghanistan in April 2024, catered to a total of 200 participants.
Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a method of providing basic psychological support to individuals in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event. It aims to reduce the initial distress caused by traumatic events and to foster short- and long-term adaptive functioning and coping. PFA is designed to be practical, flexible, and adaptable to different cultural contexts.
During the 10-day training program, participants learned about key principles of PFA, including how to assess needs and concerns, provide practical assistance, connect individuals to social support, and facilitate access to further mental health services if needed. They also practiced communication skills, active listening techniques, and self-care strategies to enhance their effectiveness as frontline responders in crisis situations.
Overall, the PFA training program not only enhanced the participants’ knowledge and skills in providing immediate psychological support but also emphasized the importance of self-care and resilience-building for aid workers and counselors working in challenging environments. By equipping them with these tools, the training aimed to strengthen the capacity of organizations to respond effectively to the mental health needs of individuals impacted by crises or disasters.
WASSA Media & Communications/KHAYYAM
