Introduction

In the aftermath of crises—be they natural disasters, armed conflicts, or public health emergencies—the invisible wounds of psychological distress and mental health conditions are as pervasive and debilitating as physical injuries. Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) in Crisis is an essential and rapidly evolving field dedicated to addressing the profound psychological impact on individuals, families, and communities, fostering resilience, and promoting well-being. It recognizes that in emergencies, basic humanitarian aid must be complemented by targeted interventions that support emotional recovery, re-establish social networks, and strengthen coping mechanisms. Without a strategic and integrated approach to MHPSS, communities in crisis risk prolonged suffering, impaired recovery, and the perpetuation of cycles of trauma, undermining their capacity to rebuild and thrive. This essential training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Crisis.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to empower humanitarian aid workers, health professionals, social workers, community leaders, program managers, and all personnel operating in crisis contexts with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to integrate MHPSS principles effectively throughout their emergency operations. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the psychological impact of emergencies, explore various MHPSS interventions at different levels of the MHPSS pyramid, learn about cultural considerations, and acquire skills in providing basic psychosocial support and making appropriate referrals. The course will delve into topics such as Psychological First Aid (PFA), community-based MHPSS, understanding common mental health conditions in emergencies, stigma reduction, ethical considerations, and integrating MHPSS into multi-sectoral responses. By mastering the principles and practical application of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Crisis, participants will be prepared to contribute meaningfully to the holistic well-being and resilience of affected populations.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Humanitarian Aid Workers and Field Staff
• Public Health Professionals
• Social Workers and Community Workers
• Emergency Response Team Members
• Protection Officers
• Camp Managers and Site Coordinators
• Education in Emergencies Staff
• Human Resources Personnel in humanitarian organizations
• Local Government and Civil Society actors in emergency preparedness.
• Anyone providing direct support or managing programs in crisis-affected populations.

Objectives

• Understand the psychological and social impact of crises on individuals and communities.
• Learn about the MHPSS pyramid of interventions and its application in emergencies.
• Acquire skills in providing basic Psychological First Aid (PFA) to affected individuals.
• Comprehend techniques for identifying common mental health conditions and making appropriate referrals.
• Explore strategies for designing and implementing community-based MHPSS programs.
• Understand the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability in MHPSS interventions.
• Gain insights into integrating MHPSS across various humanitarian sectors.
• Develop a practical understanding of ethical considerations and self-care in MHPSS work.

Course Content

Module 1: Understanding the Impact of Crisis on Mental Health and Well-being

• Defining crisis, emergency, and their diverse impacts (natural disaster, conflict, pandemic).
• Psychological and social consequences of exposure to traumatic events.
• Common stress reactions in adults, children, and adolescents.
• The concept of resilience and factors influencing it in crisis.
• The importance of a holistic approach to humanitarian response, including MHPSS.

Module 2: Overview of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS)

• Defining MHPSS and its role in humanitarian contexts.
• The MHPSS pyramid of interventions: services at different levels of intensity.
• Key MHPSS principles: Do No Harm, participation, dignity, non-discrimination.
• Understanding the interplay between mental health and psychosocial factors.
• Mapping MHPSS services and actors in an emergency response.

Module 3: Psychological First Aid (PFA)

• What is Psychological First Aid (PFA)? Its purpose and scope.
• Key action principles of PFA: Look, Listen, Link.
• Do's and Don'ts of providing PFA: active listening, empathetic communication.
• Practical scenarios and role-playing for applying PFA in diverse situations.
• When to refer individuals for more specialized support.

Module 4: Common Mental Health Conditions and Referral Pathways

• Overview of common mental health conditions in emergencies (e.g., depression, anxiety, PTSD basics).
• Recognizing signs and symptoms of severe distress and mental health conditions.
• Principles of safe and ethical referral to specialized mental health services.
• Building and maintaining functional referral pathways.
• The role of non-specialized workers in identifying and referring.

Module 5: Community-Based MHPSS Interventions

• Strengthening community and family support networks.
• Supporting positive coping strategies within communities.
• Engaging community leaders, elders, and traditional healers in MHPSS.
• Creating safe and supportive community spaces (e.g., recreational, cultural activities).
• Mobilizing community resources for collective well-being.

Module 6: Integrating MHPSS Across Sectors and Cultural Sensitivity

• Integrating MHPSS into health, nutrition, WASH, education, and protection programs.
• Practical examples of MHPSS considerations in cross-sectoral work.
• The importance of cultural context in MHPSS: understanding local beliefs, practices, and coping mechanisms.
• Adapting MHPSS interventions to be culturally appropriate and relevant.
• Addressing stigma and discrimination related to mental health.

Module 7: Protection, Gender, and Vulnerability in MHPSS

• Understanding the specific MHPSS needs of vulnerable groups: children, adolescents, older adults, people with disabilities, survivors of GBV.
• Gender-sensitive approaches to MHPSS.
• The link between MHPSS and protection against violence and exploitation.
• Principles of survivor-centered care in MHPSS.
• Safeguarding considerations in MHPSS programming.

Module 8: Ethical Practice, Data Management, and Self-Care

• Ethical considerations in MHPSS: confidentiality, informed consent, competence, Do No Harm.
• Principles of responsible data collection and management in MHPSS.
• Importance of self-care and stress management for humanitarian workers.
• Strategies for preventing burnout and promoting well-being among MHPSS responders.
• Building a resilient and ethical MHPSS workforce.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 5 working days before commencement of the training.