MODULE 5 : PSYCHOLOGICAL

FIRST AID (PFA) FOR VICTIMS

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MODULE 5 : PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID (PFA)
FOR VICTIMS AND VOLUNTEERS
Providing Emotional Support to Flood Victims
Objective:
• Understand how to identify stress or trauma signs in flood victims.

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PRINCIPLES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID
(PFA)
Basics of the "Look, Listen, and Link" Model
• Purpose of PFA: Psychological First Aid (PFA) helps reduce distress,
provide immediate emotional support, and connect individuals with
further resources. Using PFA in disaster settings allows volunteers to
respond empathetically to the emotional needs of affected
individuals.
• The "Look, Listen, and Link" Model: This three-step model offers a
straightforward, structured approach to providing PFA. Each step
guides volunteers in assessing, listening, and supporting individuals
in distress.
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PRINCIPLES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID
(PFA)
Step 1: Look
Objective: Assess the individual’s immediate surroundings and observe any visible signs
of distress or urgent needs. This step focuses on identifying who may need help and
ensuring the area is safe before approaching.
Steps for the "Look" Phase:
1. Assess the Environment: Before approaching, observe the area for potential physical
hazards, such as water, debris, or other obstacles. Ensure it is safe to engage with the
person in distress.
2. Identify Individuals in Distress: Look for visible signs of distress, such as crying,
withdrawal, confusion, or visible injuries. Prioritize those who appear most
vulnerable, such as children, the elderly, or people separated from loved ones.
3. Observe Non-Verbal Cues: Body language can indicate distress even if individuals are
not outwardly crying or calling for help. Look for signs like hunched posture, rapid
breathing, or avoidance of eye contact.

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PRINCIPLES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID
(PFA)
Practical Tips:
• Assess Urgency First: Prioritize individuals who seem overwhelmed
or unable to care for themselves.
• Ensure Safety for Both Parties: Confirm the environment is secure
for both the volunteer and the individual before offering support.
• Approach Gently: If someone seems hesitant, approach them slowly
and give them space, respecting any non-verbal signs that they may
need extra time.

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PRINCIPLES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID
(PFA)
Step 2: Listen
Objective: Establish a compassionate connection by actively listening to the individual. This phase
emphasizes creating a safe, non-judgmental space where people can share their experiences and express
emotions.
Steps for the "Listen" Phase:
1. Introduce Yourself and Ask Permission to Help: Begin by introducing yourself and asking if they would
like some assistance. Respect their decision if they decline and check back later if they seem receptive.
2. Listen Without Interrupting: Allow the individual to speak at their own pace without interrupting. Use
nods and small verbal affirmations, like “I understand,” to show that you are engaged.
3. Acknowledge Feelings and Validate Emotions: Reflect their feelings back to them by saying, “That
sounds very difficult” or “It’s understandable that you feel this way.” Avoid judgment or offering
unsolicited advice.
4. Avoid Probing Questions: Focus on what the person is comfortable sharing. Avoid pushing them to
discuss details if they don’t feel ready, as this may add to their distress.

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PRINCIPLES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID
(PFA)
Practical Tips:
• Use Open Body Language: Face the person, maintain a relaxed
posture, and avoid crossing arms, as open body language fosters
trust and receptiveness.
• Stay Calm and Patient: Maintain a steady voice and calm demeanor
to help the individual feel safe and understood.
• Avoid Minimizing Their Feelings: Never say, “At least it’s not worse”
or “It could be worse,” as these phrases can feel dismissive and
prevent open communication.

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PRINCIPLES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID
(PFA)
Step 3: Link
Objective: Help the individual connect with further resources, support systems, or necessary services. The
"Link" step provides practical assistance, helping them find resources or support to address immediate needs.
Steps for the "Link" Phase:
• Identify Immediate Needs: Ask if the individual has specific needs, such as locating family members,
accessing food or water, or finding medical assistance. Prioritize these needs and offer assistance as
feasible.
• Provide Information About Available Services: Share details about available shelter facilities, medical
support, food distribution points, and other relevant services within the area.
• Assist in Making Practical Connections: If possible, physically guide the individual to the appropriate
service area or connect them with a support person who can assist them further, such as a medical
professional, family locator service, or a counsellor.
• Follow Up When Possible: Check in later if the individual remains in the shelter or nearby, offering a
consistent presence and additional help if needed.

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PRINCIPLES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID
(PFA)
Practical Tips:
• Provide Simple, Clear Information: Avoid overwhelming the
individual with too many options; focus on immediate needs and
one or two resources.
• Follow Up if Feasible: Returning later to check in can help individuals
feel cared for and provide a sense of continuity.
• Know Available Resources: Familiarize yourself with local resources,
support systems, and services in advance to offer accurate guidance.

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TECHNIQUES FOR LISTENING, COMFORTING,
AND PROVIDING PRACTICAL ASSISTANCE
Active Listening Techniques
• Importance of Active Listening: Active listening goes beyond hearing
words; it involves understanding and empathizing with the speaker's
emotions. This technique helps individuals feel valued and validated,
which is essential for emotional relief in distressing situations.
• Elements of Active Listening: Active listening requires focus,
engagement, and empathy. Techniques include using verbal
affirmations, reflecting emotions, and providing undivided attention.

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TECHNIQUES FOR LISTENING, COMFORTING,
AND PROVIDING PRACTICAL ASSISTANCE
Practicing Active Listening:
1. Maintain Eye Contact and Open Body Language: Face the individual and maintain gentle eye contact,
showing that they have your full attention. Keep a relaxed posture to communicate openness and
approachability.
2. Use Verbal Affirmations: Small verbal cues like “I see,” “I understand,” or “That sounds difficult” show
that you are following along and empathizing with their story. Avoid interrupting and let the individual
speak at their own pace.
3. Reflect Emotions: Mirror the individual’s feelings by acknowledging them, which helps the person feel
understood. Use phrases like, “It sounds like you’re feeling…” or “I can see that this is really upsetting.”
4. Paraphrase Key Points: Repeat back key points in your own words to confirm that you understand.
Paraphrasing helps the speaker feel heard and gives them a chance to clarify any misunderstandings.
5. Avoid Judgment or Advice Unless Asked: Focus on listening without offering opinions or solutions
unless requested. Avoid phrases like “You should…” or “If I were you…” which may come across as
dismissive.

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TECHNIQUES FOR LISTENING, COMFORTING,
AND PROVIDING PRACTICAL ASSISTANCE
Practical Tips:
• Practice Patience: Let the individual take their time. Rushing through
their story can make them feel undervalued.
• Minimize Distractions: Ensure a quiet environment if possible, and
avoid looking around or checking your phone during the
conversation.
• Use Non-Verbal Affirmations: Nodding or gently mirroring the
person’s expressions reinforces that you are engaged in their story.

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TECHNIQUES FOR LISTENING, COMFORTING,
AND PROVIDING PRACTICAL ASSISTANCE
Strategies for Reassuring Distressed Individuals
• Purpose of Reassurance: Reassurance helps reduce anxiety, instill
hope, and create a safe emotional space. During a disaster, people
often feel overwhelmed, and reassurance can provide a sense of
calm and stability.
• Components of Effective Reassurance: Compassionate language,
physical cues, and practical assistance are key to reassuring
individuals and helping them feel safe and supported.

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TECHNIQUES FOR LISTENING, COMFORTING,
AND PROVIDING PRACTICAL ASSISTANCE
Reassuring Distressed Individuals:
1. Use a Calm and Gentle Tone: Speak softly and slowly, avoiding rushed or loud tones that
could add to their anxiety. A steady, calm voice conveys control and compassion.
2. Acknowledge Their Feelings: Show empathy by validating their feelings. Acknowledge their
emotions with phrases like, “It’s okay to feel scared right now” or “Anyone in your situation
would feel this way.”
3. Offer Practical Support: Provide practical assistance where possible. Offering small acts of
help, like a blanket, water, or directions to resources, demonstrates care and reinforces that
they are not alone.
4. Encourage Focus on Immediate Needs: Gently guide them to focus on immediate,
manageable steps rather than overwhelming concerns about the future. This helps bring a
sense of order to their experience.
5. Use Gentle Physical Cues (if appropriate): A light hand on the shoulder or a gentle,
comforting gesture can offer reassurance, but only if it feels appropriate and welcomed by
the individual. 14
TECHNIQUES FOR LISTENING, COMFORTING,
AND PROVIDING PRACTICAL ASSISTANCE
Practical Tips:
• Avoid False Reassurance: Avoid phrases like, “Everything will be
fine.” Instead, focus on realistic reassurances, such as, “We’re doing
everything we can to help.”
• Be Attentive to Cues: Pay attention to how they respond to touch or
verbal cues. Respect their personal boundaries and adjust your
approach as needed.
• Remind Them of Support Systems: If appropriate, remind them of
the support available, such as friends, family, or relief teams, to
reinforce that they are not alone.
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WHEN AND HOW TO REFER INDIVIDUALS FOR
FURTHER PSYCHOLOGICAL HELP
Identifying When Advanced Care is Needed
• Importance of Recognizing Severe Distress: Some individuals may
require more than basic PFA due to severe psychological responses.
Recognizing signs of deeper distress or trauma allows volunteers to
refer them to specialized help, ensuring their well-being.
• Signs Indicating the Need for Advanced Care: Signs may include
persistent anxiety, panic attacks, withdrawal, inability to perform
daily activities, or expressions of hopelessness or thoughts of self-
harm.

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WHEN AND HOW TO REFER INDIVIDUALS FOR
FURTHER PSYCHOLOGICAL HELP
Identifying Signs of Advanced Psychological Distress:
1. Observe Persistent Emotional Distress: If an individual shows ongoing signs of extreme
distress—such as crying excessively, severe anxiety, or frequent panic attacks—that do not
subside after initial support, they may require advanced care.
2. Look for Signs of Withdrawal or Detachment: Some individuals may isolate themselves,
avoid communication, or appear numb. Prolonged withdrawal or an inability to engage with
their surroundings can signal a need for mental health intervention.
3. Monitor Functional Impairment: If someone is unable to perform basic daily tasks, such as
eating, sleeping, or caring for dependents, despite receiving basic PFA, this may indicate that
they require more comprehensive support.
4. Listen for Expressions of Hopelessness or Self-Harm: If an individual expresses thoughts of
hopelessness, worthlessness, or self-harm, this is a clear sign that immediate psychological
support is required. Volunteers should prioritize referring such individuals to mental health
professionals.
5. Assess Recurrent Flashbacks or Intense Fears: If the person experiences flashbacks, intrusive
memories, or severe fear related to the flood event, they may benefit from professional
trauma counselling.
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WHEN AND HOW TO REFER INDIVIDUALS FOR
FURTHER PSYCHOLOGICAL HELP
Practical Tips:
• Trust Your Observations: Even if the individual does not explicitly ask
for help, their behaviour or emotional state may indicate that
advanced care is needed.
• Avoid Labelling Behaviours: Use neutral language and avoid making
assumptions or labelling the individual’s actions as “problematic.”
• Consult with Supervisors if Unsure: If uncertain about an
individual’s need for referral, consult a supervisor or a designated
mental health professional on-site for guidance.

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WHEN AND HOW TO REFER INDIVIDUALS FOR
FURTHER PSYCHOLOGICAL HELP
Connecting Victims to Mental Health Resources
• Importance of Resource Connection: Connecting evacuees to
specialized mental health support ensures that they receive the care
needed to address severe or ongoing psychological distress.
Volunteers play a critical role in guiding individuals toward
appropriate services.
• Types of Available Mental Health Resources: Resources may include
on-site counselors, crisis hotlines, mobile mental health units,
community support groups, and referrals to external mental health
facilities.
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WHEN AND HOW TO REFER INDIVIDUALS FOR
FURTHER PSYCHOLOGICAL HELP
Effectively Referring Individuals to Mental Health Resources:
1. Explain the Benefits of Further Support: Approach the topic sensitively by explaining that
additional support is available to help them manage overwhelming emotions. Emphasize that
seeking help is a positive step toward recovery.
2. Provide Information About Available Resources: Inform the individual about mental health
resources that are readily accessible, such as on-site counsellors, local crisis helplines, or
nearby clinics. Share details about what each resource offers and how it may benefit them.
3. Offer to Accompany Them to the Resource: If possible, offer to escort the individual to the
mental health professional or resource area to provide comfort and reassurance. This support
can make the referral process feel less intimidating.
4. Follow Up After Initial Contact: Check in with the individual later to ensure they accessed the
resource and found it helpful. Following up reinforces a sense of continued support and
stability.
5. Encourage Long-Term Mental Health Engagement: For evacuees who may need ongoing
support, provide information on accessing long-term mental health services, such as
community mental health centers, support groups, or local clinics.

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WHEN AND HOW TO REFER INDIVIDUALS FOR
FURTHER PSYCHOLOGICAL HELP
Practical Tips:
• Offer Options Without Pressure: Gently suggest resources without
pressuring the individual. They may feel more receptive if they can
choose the type of support they feel comfortable with.
• Provide Written Information: If possible, give the individual a card
or flyer with contact details of available mental health resources.
This allows them to access help in their own time.
• Follow Confidentiality Protocols: Ensure that the individual’s privacy
is maintained, especially when sharing information with mental
health providers. Avoid discussing their situation with others unless
necessary for referral purposes.
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TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEER
STRESS AND FATIGUE
Breathing Exercises and Quick Relaxation Methods
• Importance of Stress Management: During intense relief operations,
volunteers are at risk of experiencing physical fatigue, emotional
stress, and burnout. Managing these factors is essential for their
well-being and to ensure they can provide effective assistance.
• Benefits of Breathing Exercises and Relaxation Techniques:
Breathing exercises help volunteers regulate their stress response,
lower blood pressure, and promote calmness. Quick relaxation
methods allow volunteers to recharge physically and mentally, even
during short breaks.
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TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEER
STRESS AND FATIGUE
Practicing Breathing Exercises:
1. Diaphragmatic (Deep Belly) Breathing:
• Objective: Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as deep belly breathing, involves
breathing deeply into the diaphragm, which promotes relaxation and reduces
stress.
• Technique:
1. Sit or stand comfortably and place one hand on your stomach and the other on your
chest.
2. Inhale deeply through your nose, filling your stomach with air so it expands against your
hand. The chest should remain still.
3. Hold your breath for a moment, then slowly exhale through your mouth, letting your
stomach deflate.
4. Repeat for 5-10 breaths, focusing on the rise and fall of your stomach. Example: “During a
quick break, a volunteer finds a quiet spot, closes their eyes, and practices deep belly
breathing to calm their mind and ease muscle tension.”
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TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEER
STRESS AND FATIGUE
2. 4-7-8 Breathing Technique:
• Objective: This breathing pattern is designed to quickly calm the nervous
system and reduce anxiety. It can be particularly helpful before engaging in
stressful tasks.
• Technique:
1. Inhale quietly through your nose for a count of 4.
2. Hold your breath for a count of 7.
3. Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whooshing sound, for a count of 8.
4. Repeat this cycle for 3-4 breaths, focusing on extending the exhale. Example: “Before
returning to a busy distribution area, a volunteer takes a minute to practice the 4-7-8
breathing technique, feeling more centered and calm afterward.”

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TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEER
STRESS AND FATIGUE
3. Box Breathing (Square Breathing):
• Objective: Box breathing helps volunteers focus and reset by following an
equal pattern of inhales, holds, and exhales, creating a calming rhythm.
• Technique:
1. Inhale through your nose for a count of 4.
2. Hold your breath for a count of 4.
3. Exhale through your mouth for a count of 4.
4. Hold again for a count of 4 before repeating the cycle.
5. Repeat for 4-5 cycles, maintaining a steady rhythm. Example: “A volunteer uses box
breathing between shifts, finding it helpful to regain focus and control over their
breath and emotions.”

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TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEER
STRESS AND FATIGUE
Practical Tips:
• Practice Breathing Exercises Regularly: Set aside a few minutes
during breaks to practice breathing exercises, even if you don’t feel
stressed, as this can prevent fatigue buildup.
• Focus on Breath Control in High-Stress Moments: Use breathing
exercises when facing challenging tasks or interactions to remain
calm and composed.
• Use Visual Aids: Picture a calming scene, such as waves gently rolling
in and out, while practicing breathing exercises to deepen relaxation.

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TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEER
STRESS AND FATIGUE
Quick Relaxation Methods
• Importance of Quick Relaxation: Short relaxation techniques
provide immediate stress relief and can be done in limited time,
allowing volunteers to recharge quickly between tasks.
• Types of Quick Relaxation Methods: These include progressive
muscle relaxation, visualization, and mini-stretches to release
physical tension and refocus the mind.

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TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEER
STRESS AND FATIGUE
Practicing Quick Relaxation Techniques:
1. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR):
• Objective: PMR involves tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to
release physical tension and bring attention to the body.
• Technique:
1. Find a comfortable standing or seated position.
2. Start with your feet, tensing the muscles for 5 seconds, then releasing them
completely.
3. Move up through each muscle group (calves, thighs, abdomen, shoulders, arms,
neck), tensing each group briefly and then relaxing it.
4. Focus on the difference between tension and relaxation, letting go of any remaining
stress in the body. Example: “A volunteer uses PMR after a demanding task, feeling
more physically relaxed and mentally refreshed before continuing their shift.”

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TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEER
STRESS AND FATIGUE
2. Visualization Technique:
• Objective: Visualization helps volunteers mentally escape from the stress of
their environment by imagining a calming, peaceful scene.
• Technique:
1. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
2. Picture a peaceful place, such as a beach, forest, or mountain view, in as much detail
as possible.
3. Engage all your senses by imagining the sounds, smells, and sensations of this place.
4. Spend a minute or two in this mental space, letting your mind relax and focusing on
the calmness of the scene. Example: “In a quiet moment, a volunteer closes their
eyes and imagines standing by a calm lake, which helps them feel less overwhelmed
by the shelter environment.”

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TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEER
STRESS AND FATIGUE
3. Mini-Stretch Routine:
• Objective: Gentle stretches relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and
provide a quick physical reset, especially during long hours of standing or
repetitive movements.
• Technique:
1. Neck Stretch: Gently tilt your head toward each shoulder, holding each side for 5
seconds.
2. Shoulder Roll: Roll your shoulders forward and then backward in a circular motion,
repeating 5 times.
3. Back Stretch: Interlace your fingers, stretch your arms above your head, and hold for
5-10 seconds.
4. Ankle Circles: Lift one foot and rotate your ankle in a circular motion, switching to the
other foot after a few rotations. Example: “Between tasks, a volunteer takes a minute
to stretch their neck, shoulders, and ankles, feeling more refreshed and ready for the
next activity.”
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TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEER
STRESS AND FATIGUE
Practical Tips:
• Combine Relaxation Techniques: Pair breathing exercises with
visualization for deeper relaxation and stress relief.
• Keep Movements Gentle: Avoid over-stretching; keep all
movements gentle to prevent muscle strain.
• Practice in Short Intervals: Use quick relaxation methods whenever
possible, even if only for a minute or two, to prevent fatigue from
accumulating.

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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF BURNOUT
Early Warning Signs and Intervention
• Importance of Recognizing Burnout: Burnout is a state of emotional,
physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. In high-
stress environments like disaster relief, volunteers may be at risk of
burnout, which can impact their well-being and effectiveness.
• Common Signs of Burnout: Burnout manifests through physical,
emotional and behavioural signs. Recognizing these signs early
allows volunteers to take preventive action before burnout fully
develops.

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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF BURNOUT
Early Warning Signs of Burnout:
1. Physical Symptoms:
• Chronic Fatigue: Feeling persistently tired, even after rest, and lacking the
energy to complete tasks.
• Headaches and Muscle Pain: Experiencing tension headaches, sore muscles,
or other stress-related physical pain.
• Sleep Disturbances: Having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or
experiencing poor-quality rest.

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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF BURNOUT
2. Emotional Symptoms:
• Irritability or Increased Sensitivity: Feeling more easily annoyed, frustrated,
or emotional in response to small stressors.
• Sense of Helplessness or Detachment: Feeling disconnected from the work
or the people they are helping, or feeling like their efforts are not making a
difference.
• Loss of Motivation: Losing enthusiasm for tasks or lacking the desire to
continue volunteering, even if they were previously motivated. Example: “A
volunteer who was once enthusiastic about helping now expresses that they
feel detached and questions whether their work is making any impact.”

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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF BURNOUT
3. Behavioural Signs:
• Reduced Performance: Struggling to stay focused, making more mistakes, or
taking longer to complete tasks.
• Withdrawal from Social Interaction: Avoiding conversations or activities
with other volunteers, isolating themselves during breaks.
• Neglect of Personal Needs: Skipping meals, neglecting personal hygiene, or
not taking regular breaks, often due to a sense of being overwhelmed.

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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF BURNOUT
Practical Tips for Recognizing Burnout:
• Check in Regularly: Volunteers should make a habit of assessing
their own mental and physical state throughout the day, noting any
changes in energy, motivation, or mood.
• Look Out for Peers: Team members can help by observing each
other and offering support if they notice early signs of burnout, like
withdrawal or irritability.
• Encourage Open Communication: Create an environment where
volunteers feel comfortable discussing their stress levels and sharing
any challenges they are facing.
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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF BURNOUT
Interventions to Address Early Burnout Signs
• Importance of Timely Interventions: Acting on early signs of
burnout can prevent it from worsening. Simple interventions, such
as short breaks, changes in task roles, or access to support
resources, can alleviate stress and boost morale.
• Types of Interventions: Interventions can be personal (self-care
techniques) or supported by team leaders (adjusting workloads,
promoting rest).

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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF BURNOUT
Implementing Burnout Interventions:
1. Encourage Regular Breaks:
• Objective: Frequent short breaks allow volunteers to recharge, preventing physical and
emotional exhaustion from accumulating.
• Implementation: Encourage volunteers to take brief rest breaks every couple of hours,
ideally in a quiet space where they can relax.
2. Rotate Tasks to Alleviate Monotony:
• Objective: Task rotation prevents volunteers from feeling overwhelmed by repetitive or
high-stress roles and helps maintain engagement.
• Implementation: Rotate volunteers through different types of tasks, giving them a variety of
responsibilities to keep them mentally engaged.
3. Practice and Promote Self-Care Techniques:
• Objective: Encourage self-care practices like deep breathing, stretching, and hydration to
manage stress and maintain well-being.
• Implementation: Provide volunteers with quick relaxation techniques and remind them to
drink water, eat balanced meals, and practice deep breathing exercises.
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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF BURNOUT
4. Foster Team Support and Check-Ins:
• Objective: Social support helps volunteers feel connected, validated, and
supported by their team, reducing feelings of isolation.
• Implementation: Arrange regular group check-ins where volunteers can
share their experiences, express concerns, and receive encouragement from
team members.
5. Provide Access to Mental Health Resources:
• Objective: Offering professional mental health support provides volunteers
with a safe space to express emotions and receive guidance on managing
stress.
• Implementation: Partner with mental health professionals who can offer on-
site counselling or telehealth sessions for volunteers experiencing high
stress.
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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF BURNOUT
Practical Tips for Interventions:
• Encourage Balance: Remind volunteers of the importance of
balancing service with self-care to ensure they can continue helping
effectively.
• Normalize Rest: Reinforce that taking breaks or accessing support is
normal and encouraged, reducing any stigma around seeking help.
• Recognize Efforts: Acknowledge the hard work and dedication of
volunteers regularly to reinforce their sense of purpose and
accomplishment.

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Conclusion
• The "Look, Listen, and Link" model offers a compassionate way for volunteers to support flood
victims by assessing needs, listening actively, and connecting them to helpful resources.
• Active listening and compassionate reassurance help volunteers build trust and provide emotional
and practical support, making evacuees feel safe and cared for during difficult times.
• Recognizing and addressing psychological needs helps evacuees recover. By spotting distress and
connecting people to mental health resources, volunteers play a vital role in disaster response.
• Breathing exercises and relaxation techniques help volunteers manage stress, stay energized and
provide calm, focused support during challenging times.
• Addressing burnout early helps volunteers stay healthy and effective during disaster relief.
Spotting warning signs and offering support creates a resilient and balanced team.

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THANK YOU

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