Psychological First Aid (PFA)

What is Psychological First Aid (PFA)?

• A medical procedure for physical injuries

• A form of psychotherapy

• A type of medication for mental health issues

• Emotional and practical support offered to people in crisis

Which of the following is a primary goal of PFA?

• To provide emotional and practical support during crises

• To diagnose mental health disorders

• To prescribe medication

• To offer long-term therapy

What is one of the basic principles of PFA?

• Tell the person how to feel

• Focus on listening and providing comfort

• Avoid talking to the person in crisis

• Give medical treatment for injuries

Which of the following is NOT a core action of PFA?

• Listen to the person without judgment

• Force the person to talk about their trauma

• Connect the person with social support

• Give the person space to express their feelings

In PFA, how should you approach someone who is in distress?

• Ignore them until they are ready to talk

• Speak forcefully to get their attention

• Remain calm, speak softly, and offer comfort

• Diagnose their condition immediately

What is the first step when offering Psychological First Aid?

• Assess the situation and ensure safety

• Help the person find shelter

• Provide immediate medical care

• Solve the person’s problems

What should you do if someone declines help during PFA?

• Insist on staying with them until they change their mind

• Force them to accept help

• Respect their choice and let them know support is available

• Ignore them and move on

In PFA, why is it important to avoid asking someone to relive their traumatic experience?

• It could cause more emotional harm and distress

• It allows them to heal faster

• It may help them overcome it quickly

• It shows them you care deeply

PFA providers should avoid making statements like:

• "It’s normal to feel upset after what happened."

• "I’m here if you want to talk."

• "Everything will be fine, don’t worry about it."

• "I’m here if you want to talk."

Which of the following is a good example of “Active Listening” in PFA?

• Constantly interrupting to give advice

• Ignoring emotional expressions and focusing on facts

• Nodding and using short verbal affirmations like “I see” or “Go on”

• Talking about your own similar experiences