When we experience a critical or confronting event, it is important to have practices and a support system in place to help us cope with our emotions.
Psychological First Aid is the terminology that is used to describe what is traditionally known as debriefing, which occurs for impacted individuals following a difficult event. Monash Health’s Be Well Program delivers Psychological First Aid.
The sessions are an opportunity for teams to actively pause, think, and reflect on their experience following a confronting event. The process is dynamic, ethical, and non-judgemental, and should be conducted shortly after the event has occurred.
There are five key elements of psychosocial support, and they include:
- Ensuring safety
- Promoting calm
- Promoting connectedness
- Promoting self-efficacy and group efficacy
- Instilling hope
Psychological First Aid acknowledges that individuals will experience a range of early reactions post the event which may impact their immediate ability to cope. It is important to remember that these reactions are accepted as a normal response to an abnormal event.
For most individuals, they will return to their usual level of functioning with some time, rest and connecting with their regular supports, including colleagues, family, and friends. If you or someone you are concerned about displays more complex reactions, this may indicate that further support is required.
Monash Health’s Be Well Program
To access the Program, team leaders are encouraged to contact the Be Well Program to discuss their team’s needs and to book a session.
For further information and resources to support your own and your team’s health and wellbeing, visit the employee wellbeing webpages.
Approved by Karen Lowe.