Effectiveness Review Psychological First Aid as an Early Intervention in Facing a Crisis

Abstract

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an early psychosocial intervention provided to individuals experiencing psychological distress following crises, disasters, traumatic events, or health emergencies. This literature review aims to examine the characteristics, principles, components, implementation steps, effectiveness, implementation, and contextual adaptation of PFA across various crisis situations. PFA employs a supportive approach based on the principles of Look, Listen, and Link, emphasizing safety, calmness, self- and community-efficacy, connectedness, and hope. The literature indicates that PFA can be delivered by healthcare professionals and trained non-professionals. Research evidence suggests that PFA provides benefits particularly in improving providers’ knowledge, skills, self-efficacy, and preparedness, while also showing potential to reduce distress and anxiety and support adaptive functioning among recipients during the early to intermediate periods following traumatic events. However, evidence regarding its effectiveness in preventing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and other long-term clinical outcomes remains limited and inconsistent. The implementation of PFA should also consider population characteristics, cultural context, type of crisis, provider competence, and the availability of referral systems. Therefore, PFA may be positioned as part of an early psychosocial response, supported by structured training, ongoing evaluation, and adaptation to the local context.