Volume 6 Issue 10 October, 2016
Psychological First Aid
October 10th is one of the most important day in mental health calendar for it is observed as world mental
health day globally. It is meant for mental health awareness, education and advocacy. It was celebrated first in
1992, at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization. The event
provides the opportunity for all the stakeholders involved in mental health care to plan and implement activities
related to mental health awareness and access to services. Along with WHO, this day is being observed every year
with a theme reflecting the action policies. This year’s theme is “Psychological & Mental Health First Aid for all”.
Also called as psychological first aid (PFA), carries similarity to well known (physical) first aid during mishaps which
is often lifesaving and limits the damage. But, PFA concept is poorly understood globally as mental health distress
and crises are viewed differently because of ignorance and stigma towards mental illnesses. Mental health issues
and distress are rising in alarming proportions due to various crises happening around the world and people, more
than ever are suffering from these. PFA offers a support to those who are in mental trauma as a result of various
distressing events involving an individual or many people. This helps the affected people recover and get back to
productive life sooner. It is briefly described in invited article. Let us take this opportunity to know and learn more
about mental health first aid and join hands in reaching out to those who need it.
BMCH&RC, Chitradurga (Karnataka)
