When a Colleague Seeks Support for Distress
If a colleague reaches out and expresses they are in distress, follow the psychological first aid guidance below, provided by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Office of Mental Health Disaster Preparedness and Response.
Promote SAFETY
- Help people meet their basic needs for food and shelter and emergency medical attention if needed
- Provide simple and accurate information on how to obtain assistance to meet their basic needs
- Stress may alter the individuals’ ability to process information. Repeat information as often as necessary
Promote CALM
- Listen to people who wish to share their stories and emotions
- Remember people react differently to disasters and there is no right or wrong way to feel
- Be friendly and compassionate even if people are being difficult
- Obtain and offer accurate information about the disaster or trauma, and the relief efforts, to help victims better understand the situation
Promote CONNECTEDNESS
- Help people to contact their friends or loved ones
- Keep families together
- Keep children with parents or other close relatives
Promote HOPE
- Find out the types and locations of government and non-government services that are available and direct people to these services
- If you have the correct information available tell people that help is on its way
Promote SELF-EFFICACY
- Give practical suggestions on how people can help themselves
- Help people regain their sense of control by engaging them in activities to meet their own needs
*Source: New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Office of Mental Health Disaster Preparedness and Response