A Psychological First Aid (PFA) seminar was conducted for non-teaching personnel

to prepare them to respond in the immediate aftermath of an emergency. When non-teaching

personnel are trained in emergency protocols and have knowledge of techniques to reduce

anxiety and establish calm, they are better able to handle the emergency and be of help to

those affected.

The first lecturer of the seminar, Ms. Irene Daguasi, discussed the overview of mental

health and psychosocial services. She emphasizes the promotion and protection of the mental

health and general welfare of all the university employees. After the lecture, team-building

activities were conducted by Ms. Daguasi and Dr. Ladip, which everyone enjoyed. Through

the team-building exercises, participants learned the value of enhanced morale, leadership

skills, creativity, and better communication.

Ms. Lovelia Iringan began her talk on Psychological First Aid (PFA) on the second

day of the seminar. She emphasizes the value of psychological first aid in facilitating the

mental and emotional healing of those who have experienced trauma. In order to address

immediate issues and basic needs, Ms. Iringan emphasizes the value of active listening,

paying attention to the person’s response, and providing helpful assistance to individuals in

need. After the presentation on psychological first aid, workshops were also conducted.

Following the talk, participants were asked to draw anything they wanted on a sheet of bond

paper, and the speaker interpreted their drawings. The speaker claims that based on the

workshop’s results, some individuals have concerns and should see the guidance counselor.

As a result of this training, the use of Psychological First Aid (PFA) has improved

people’s ability to cope with problems or emergencies both during and after they occur.

Additionally, non-teaching staff members were taught on how to maintain their general wellbeing and physical health.