How does the Red Cross define “psychological first aid”?

The Red Cross defines “psychological first aid” as support aimed at reducing emotional distress in disaster survivors. This approach focuses on providing immediate, practical, and emotional care to individuals experiencing the psychological impact of a crisis or disaster. The goal is to help people feel safe, stabilize their emotions, and connect them with further support if needed.

This type of aid is critical in disaster situations, as individuals often experience overwhelming feelings of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. By addressing these emotional needs promptly, psychological first aid can help mitigate longer-term psychological issues and promote resilience among those affected.

This method differs significantly from immediate medical treatment for injuries, which focuses solely on physical health. Long-term therapy for PTSD is also outside the scope of psychological first aid, as it typically requires ongoing therapeutic interventions beyond the initial support phase. Additionally, crisis intervention through physical assistance primarily addresses immediate physical needs rather than emotional well-being, further distinguishing it from psychological first aid.