Course Details

Mental Health & Psychosocial Support in Emergencies Training Course

INTRODUCTION

In the chaos and upheaval of emergencies, the invisible wounds of trauma and distress often go unaddressed, yet are critical to recovery and long-term well-being. Our comprehensive Mental Health & Psychosocial Support in Emergencies Training Course equips individuals with the essential skills and knowledge to provide vital support to those affected by crises. From understanding the psychological impact of emergencies and conducting rapid assessments to delivering basic psychosocial support and referring individuals for specialized care, this program provides a foundational understanding of how to protect and promote mental health in challenging humanitarian settings.

Designed for a wide range of professionals and volunteers working in emergency response, including healthcare workers, social workers, educators, community mobilizers, and NGO staff, this training addresses the urgent need for mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) in diverse crisis contexts. Participants will learn to identify common mental health problems arising from emergencies, implement culturally appropriate interventions, and prioritize self-care to maintain their own well-being. By mastering these skills, graduates will be empowered to provide compassionate and effective support, fostering resilience and contributing to the overall recovery of individuals and communities affected by emergencies.

DURATION

5 days

TARGET AUDIENCE

• Healthcare Workers (Doctors, Nurses, Paramedics)
• Social Workers and Counselors
• Psychologists and Psychiatrists working in emergency settings
• Educators and Child Protection Officers
• Community Mobilizers and Outreach Workers
• NGO Staff involved in emergency response
• First Responders and Volunteers
• Individuals interested in providing mental health support in crises

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:

• Understand the psychological impact of different types of emergencies on individuals and communities.
• Conduct rapid assessments of mental health and psychosocial needs in emergency settings.
• Provide basic psychosocial support using evidence-based approaches.
• Identify individuals at risk and refer them to specialized mental health services.
• Adapt MHPSS interventions to different cultural contexts.
• Understand the importance of child protection and address the specific needs of children in emergencies.
• Promote community-based approaches to mental health and psychosocial support.
• Prioritize self-care and resilience for themselves and their teams.

COURSE MODULES

Module 1: Understanding the Psychological Impact of Emergencies:

• Exploring the common psychological reactions to trauma and loss in emergencies.
• Understanding the impact of displacement, violence, and insecurity on mental health.
• Recognizing the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in crisis settings (e.g., PTSD, depression, anxiety).
• Examining the effects of emergencies on specific populations (children, adolescents, older adults).
• Understanding the importance of cultural context in understanding psychological distress.

Module 2: Rapid Mental Health and Psychosocial Assessment in Emergencies:

• Conducting rapid assessments of mental health and psychosocial needs in emergency situations.
• Identifying vulnerable groups and individuals at higher risk.
• Utilizing appropriate assessment tools and techniques in resource-limited settings.
• Understanding ethical considerations in data collection and information sharing.
• Prioritizing urgent needs and informing the development of MHPSS interventions.

Module 3: Providing Basic Psychosocial Support:

• Applying principles of Psychological First Aid (PFA) to provide immediate support.
• Utilizing active listening and empathetic communication skills.
• Helping individuals identify and cope with their emotions and reactions.
• Promoting safety, stabilization, and connection with support networks.
• Understanding the limits of basic support and the need for referral.

Module 4: Identifying and Referring Individuals for Specialized Care:

• Recognizing signs and symptoms that indicate the need for specialized mental health services.
• Understanding referral pathways and available resources in emergency contexts.
• Communicating effectively with individuals about the need for referral.
• Addressing stigma and barriers to accessing mental health care.
• Collaborating with mental health professionals and other relevant services.

Module 5: Adapting MHPSS Interventions to Different Cultural Contexts:

• Understanding the influence of culture on mental health and help-seeking behaviors.
• Adapting MHPSS approaches to be culturally appropriate and sensitive.
• Working with community leaders and traditional healers.
• Avoiding the imposition of Western models of mental health care.
• Promoting culturally relevant coping mechanisms and support systems.

Module 6: Addressing the Mental Health and Psychosocial Needs of Children in Emergencies:

• Understanding the specific psychological impact of emergencies on children.
• Recognizing signs of distress and trauma in children of different age groups.
• Implementing child-friendly approaches to providing psychosocial support.
• Addressing issues of child protection and preventing further harm.
• Working with families and caregivers to support children's well-being.

Module 7: Promoting Community-Based Mental Health and Psychosocial Support:

• Understanding the importance of community-based approaches to MHPSS.
• Empowering communities to develop their own support mechanisms.
• Training community members to provide basic psychosocial support.
• Utilizing existing community resources and social networks.
• Reducing stigma and promoting mental health awareness within the community.

Module 8: Self-Care and Resilience for Responders:

• Understanding the risks of burnout and secondary trauma for humanitarian workers.
• Developing strategies for self-care and stress management.
• Building resilience and coping mechanisms.
• Recognizing signs of stress and seeking support for oneself and team members.
• Promoting a supportive and healthy work environment.

CERTIFICATION

• Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

• Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

• Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

• Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com