Psychological first aid (PFA) is one of the activities of psychosocial support (PSS) under the mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) intervention pyramid. PFA activities are being implemented as part of the response to climate disasters and health emergencies. This paper attempts to review the MHPSS intervention pyramid to examine what should be considered for localization. The study also conducts a gap analysis of PFA interventions in the context of climate disasters in Pacific Island countries (PICs). A scoping review of sources and keywords was used to identify research articles on the effectiveness of PFA in climate disasters. Online survey questions were sent to ten PICs red cross offices. Three PICs participated in survey interviews to gauge current status, issues, and challenges. The literature review demonstrates the effectiveness of PFA program intervention in a different context. However, there is a lack of such evidence from PICs and a lack of scientific evidence. A preliminary online survey found 50% of PFA is part of the disaster response and rehabilitation program. The gap analysis reveals that the current PFA has no tangible outcomes, negligible stakeholder consultation, lacks strategic planning, and lacks cultural context and localization. However, the PFA program is widely used and is generally accepted as a valuable tool during climate disaster response and recovery. Many recommendations are being made to fill these gaps as areas of improvement for PICs, to ensure that PFA intervention is recognized locally and scientifically proven effective in the context of climate disasters.

Authors:
Malini Nair, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, Japan

About the Presenter(s)
Ms Malini Nair is a PhD student at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University in Japan. She has 11+ years of experience in multiple sectors. Malini has worked for the International red cross and is a Master Trainer at the Global First Aid Reference Centre.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/malini-nair-73442263/

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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