Disasters and other traumas
When disasters, public health emergencies like the recent pandemic, or mass violence events happen, parents' first thoughts are about the safety and well-being of their children. Understanding common reactions that children may have after these events and factors that can impact well-being are the beginning steps in supporting positive healing. Psychological first aid (PFA) is the next action that parents can take. PFA consists of eight core action steps, which include emotional support, information and education, encouraging the practice of positive coping, and recognizing when one needs more help and getting this extra help. To best respond to the overall needs of their children, parents not only need to provide PFA, they need to attend to their own self-care. A new framework for self-care, PRN (pause, reset, and nourish), can help. Implemented together (e.g., understanding reactions, providing PFA, and practicing self-care), parents can significantly increase the whole family's abilities to heal and to recover after traumatic events.
