Tips for Psychological First Aid

• 2025

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The document describes Psychological First Aid (PFA) as a way to help students, staff, and families after emergencies. Any trained school staff can use PFA by listening, protecting routines, and connecting people with support. Helpful actions include offering comfort and basic needs without judging or making assumptions. It is important to train staff to notice signs of distress and lead by example. PFA does not replace professional mental health care; those needing more help should get extra support after an event.

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Tags

Focus Areas: Natural Disasters; Severe Weather; Trauma; Violence

Audience: Schools & Childcare Providers

Emergency Management Stages: Response; Recovery

Keywords: Crisis Intervention; Disaster Planning; Mental Health Services; Schools; Students; Resilience, Psychological; Psychological First Aid

Institutions: Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools Technical Assistance Center (REMSTA); U.S. Department of Education

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Recovery Planning for Schools and Institutions of Higher Education in the Immediate Aftermath of a Significant or Federally Declared Natural Disaster 2022 · Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools Technical Assistance Center (REMSTA), U.S. Department of Education Resources on Trauma-Informed Care for Schools Before, During, and After Possible Emergency Events 2019 · Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools Technical Assistance Center (REMSTA), U.S. Department of Education Bereavement, Memorials, and Anniversaries: Developing a Recovery Annex for K-12 Schools 2024 · Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools Technical Assistance Center (REMSTA), U.S. Department of Education

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The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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