Psychological First Aid – Study Guide Notes
(Based on Johns Hopkins University Coursera Course)
Core Principles
• PFA = first response for mental/emotional crisis, not therapy.
• Main goal: reduce immediate distress, promote adaptive functioning, and connect to
supports.
• Golden rule: Do no harm.
The RAPID Model (Main Framework)
• R – Rapport & Reflective Listening: Approach calmly, introduce yourself, respect
privacy. Use reflective listening (repeat back main points, validate feelings).
• A – Assessment of Needs: Identify urgent medical/safety issues. Triage: Who is most
at risk? (injured, alone, children, elderly).
• P – Prioritization: Who needs help now vs who can wait. Focus on safety, survival, and
psychological stability.
• I – Intervention: Stabilization techniques if person is panicked (grounding, calm
breathing). Normalize stress responses. Offer practical help (water, shelter, contacting
family).
• D – Disposition & Follow-up: Connect them with services or support networks. Arrange
for longer-term care if needed.
Communication Tips
• Short, clear sentences.
• Listen more than you talk.
• Avoid false promises (‘You’ll be fine’).
• Respect cultural/religious sensitivities.
• Body language: open stance, calm tone, not rushed.
Triage & Mock Case Practice
• Case 1: Adult crying but oriented, wants water → provide comfort, hydration, reassure.
• Case 2: Teen hyperventilating, panicked, can’t focus → grounding techniques, slow
breathing, reassure safety.
• Case 3: Child separated from parent → ensure safety, try to reunite, comfort through
presence.
(Based on Johns Hopkins University Coursera Course)
Core Principles
• PFA = first response for mental/emotional crisis, not therapy.
• Main goal: reduce immediate distress, promote adaptive functioning, and connect to
supports.
• Golden rule: Do no harm.
The RAPID Model (Main Framework)
• R – Rapport & Reflective Listening: Approach calmly, introduce yourself, respect
privacy. Use reflective listening (repeat back main points, validate feelings).
• A – Assessment of Needs: Identify urgent medical/safety issues. Triage: Who is most
at risk? (injured, alone, children, elderly).
• P – Prioritization: Who needs help now vs who can wait. Focus on safety, survival, and
psychological stability.
• I – Intervention: Stabilization techniques if person is panicked (grounding, calm
breathing). Normalize stress responses. Offer practical help (water, shelter, contacting
family).
• D – Disposition & Follow-up: Connect them with services or support networks. Arrange
for longer-term care if needed.
Communication Tips
• Short, clear sentences.
• Listen more than you talk.
• Avoid false promises (‘You’ll be fine’).
• Respect cultural/religious sensitivities.
• Body language: open stance, calm tone, not rushed.
Triage & Mock Case Practice
• Case 1: Adult crying but oriented, wants water → provide comfort, hydration, reassure.
• Case 2: Teen hyperventilating, panicked, can’t focus → grounding techniques, slow
breathing, reassure safety.
• Case 3: Child separated from parent → ensure safety, try to reunite, comfort through
presence.
