Psychological First Aid: World Mental Health Day

We’re great at prepping for the visible. We meticulously pack our emergency kits with flashlights, batteries, and bandages. But when a crisis hits, whether it’s a regional conflict or a personal disaster, the most critical injuries aren't always the ones that bleed. They are the invisible scars that trauma leaves on the mind. This year, the theme for World Mental Health Day is all about "Access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies," forcing us to confront a vital truth: our immediate priority must include protecting the heart and mind just as fiercely as we protect the body. Every crisis fundamentally shakes our sense of safety. The anxiety, the raw grief, and the overwhelming fear are the hidden injuries that compound over time.

Here’s the reality check, backed by the science: far too many people in crisis zones are struggling alone. Research published in The Lancet confirmed that approximately one in five people (22%) living in areas affected by conflict are currently grappling with common mental disorders like depression, anxiety, or PTSD (Charlson et al., 2019). Think about that number: 22%. That’s a massive, unmet need. The system just can’t cope. When the infrastructure collapses, formal mental health services often vanish. This is why we can’t wait for the professionals. We need to empower you, the community, the neighbour, the friend, to become the first line of defence. This is the moment to learn Psychological First Aid (PFA).

Psychological First Aid is not therapy. You are not trying to fix someone’s past trauma. Instead, you provide a humane, practical connection designed to stabilise them, ease panic, and help them get what they need most. The approach can be remembered in three simple steps: LOOK, LISTEN, and LINK. First, LOOK: observe what is happening around you. Notice those who are distressed, withdrawn, or agitated, and make sure they are safe.

Check that basic needs like shelter, water, and protection are met. Next, LISTEN: offer a calm, non-judgmental presence. Let the person guide the conversation and accept every reaction, whether it is tears, anger, or numbness, as normal. Focus on immediate priorities rather than probing for details, and provide quiet reassurance. Finally, LINK: connect them to practical help. Recovery begins with restoring predictability and support. Assist them in finding family, securing temporary housing, accessing medical care, or reconnecting with social networks. Following these steps helps someone move from chaos toward control and connection.

The helper matters just as much as the person being helped. Your own mental health is your primary tool. Self-care is not selfish; it is essential. Limit exposure to distressing news, maintain small familiar routines, and lean on your own support network. These simple actions preserve your capacity to help others effectively.

PFA can guide someone through the first days of crisis, but it is not a substitute for professional care. If distress persists beyond a month, interferes with daily functioning, or involves thoughts of self-harm or increased reliance on substances, it is time to reach out to experts. You have done your part; now professionals can step in.

If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please reach out to the following helplines: Tele-MANAS at 14416, or iCALL at 9152987821.

Reference: Charlson, F., van Ommeren, M., Flaxman, A., Stein, D. J., & Whiteford, H. (2019). New data on the global prevalence of mental disorders in conflict-affected populations. The Lancet, 394(10212), 1778-1779.