The Kuwait Red Crescent Society organized on Sunday a workshop entitled "Psychological First Aid," presented by the Chairman of the Kuwait Society for Crisis and Emergency Management, Dr. Fawzi Al-Khawaree, with the aim of raising awareness of psychological support methods during crises.
The Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Red Crescent, Dr. Nasser Al-Tanak, stated that enhancing mental health awareness and developing psychological support skills are of great importance, particularly in light of the current situation and the psychological effects that may accompany it, which require scientifically grounded approaches.
Al-Tanak explained that the workshop addressed the impact of current crises and events on the mental health of both adults and children, the importance of identifying psychological disorders that may emerge during emergencies, as well as introducing the concept of psychological first aid and its role in supporting those in need.
He noted that the workshop reviewed the World Health Organization's definition of psychological first aid, its objectives, and methods for dealing with panic reactions and complex psychological responses, in addition to training participants practically in applying the skills acquired through the presentation of case studies and their management mechanisms.
He mentioned that only 17 volunteers participated in the workshop in compliance with official instructions regarding the organization of gatherings. He noted that the Society had organized the same workshop via video conference the previous Friday, with approximately 420 participants.
He revealed that the Society will organize daily first aid training courses for male and female volunteers and the general public from the following day until March 19, from 8 PM to 12 midnight, with the aim of strengthening the community's initial response skills.
He clarified that registration for those wishing to participate in these courses will be announced through the Society's official channels, enabling the largest possible number of people to benefit from these training programs.