The term 'first aid' refers to a series of actions that, in an orderly manner, must be carried out when helping a person who has suffered an accident and needs help. But did you know that psychological first aid also exists?
Psychological first aid can be applied to people of all ages. However, here we will only deal with them in relation to children. The situations that can lead to the application of psychological first aid are many, but we can identify them as extraordinary situations that a child experiences directly or indirectly and that are related to a traumatic event. Events that can cause these emotional instabilities can be: the death of a family member or relative, a natural disaster, abuse, witnessing or experiencing a violent event, among other things. The way to identify a traumatic situation can be through the following criteria:
- It is an unexpected event that is out of the ordinary.
- It represents a temporary or permanent change in the child's routine.
- It generates intense fear in the child or primary caregiver.
Once an event with the above characteristics has been identified, there are a number of actions that can be implemented, preferably within 72 hours, and no more than a week after the event.
Contain
In young children under 6 years of age, it is advisable to ensure that the child feels protected and comfortable. This is achieved by showing affection and avoiding separation. From 6 to 12 years of age, it is necessary to help them find balance in their emotions and provide them with space to be alone.
Calming
Children under 6 years of age can be calmed by using soothing strategies or, for example, by encouraging their imagination: drawing, playing or singing. From this age onwards, it is necessary to talk to them and show them that they have overcome a difficult situation, and at the same time give them space to do activities that help them to distract themselves.
Inform
Above all, you must provide real information: never resort to lies, even if we are talking about children under six years of age. Answer their questions in short sentences that they can easily understand and assimilate. A child, from six to nine years old, above all, asks specific questions: it is ideal to answer only what he/she asks. For older children, over the age of nine, we should avoid hiding information or talking to them like little children. At this point, the key is trust in the child, regardless of age.
Normalise
Creating routines that adapt to the new reality will help the child feel comfortable again. For children over the age of six, we should encourage the expression of feelings and emotions, but without forcing them to do so.
Comfort
Ideally, comfort should be found in the daily activities that the child enjoys. For children under the age of six, we can spend time playing and doing routine, productive tasks. For children aged 6-12, conversation and art, for example, drawing or arts and crafts, can be an effective comfort and a way to externalise feelings and emotions. Returning to activities they enjoy will also help.
It is important to remember that these tools are applicable to all children, but that each child is unique and how they respond to these stimuli may vary.
Submit comment Cancel Reply