Course Overview

In times of crisis—whether due to natural disasters, epidemics, or conflicts—communities face immense emotional and psychological challenges. This 10-day training course on Mental Health & Psychosocial Support  is designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to provide effective mental health and psychosocial support, helping communities heal and rebuild. Presented by Uphilos, this training focuses on fostering resilience and restoring community structures.

Who Can Attend?

• Healthcare Providers: Professionals looking to enhance their support for affected individuals.
• Humanitarian Workers: Individuals working in disaster or conflict-prone areas.
• Community Leaders: Those interested in promoting community-based healing approaches.

Course Objectives:

• Understand Crisis Impact: Comprehend the effects of disasters and emergencies on mental health.
• Develop Interventions: Learn to craft sustainable psychosocial interventions.
• Support Resilient Communities: Assist communities in rebuilding and coping with trauma.

Course Modules:

Module 1: Crises and Psychosocial Assistance

• Understanding Crisis Events: Define what constitutes a crisis and its psychosocial impact.
• Psychosocial Support Structure: Explore the needs and frameworks for effective support.

Module 2: Basic Counseling Skills

• Communication Skills: Master basic interpersonal communication and active listening.
• Counseling Techniques: Learn person-centered counseling and session structuring.

Module 3: Stress Management

• Identifying Stress: Recognize signs of stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Coping Mechanisms: Develop strategies for managing stress and promoting resilience.

Module 4: Bereavement and Loss

• Navigating Grief: Understand the stages of grief and strategies for managing long-term grief.
• Support for Children: Address how children cope with loss and provide appropriate guidance.

Module 5: Approaches to Psychosocial Support

• Community-Based Support: Implement community-driven psychosocial initiatives.
• Gender and Displacement: Address specific challenges related to gender and displacement in crises.

Module 6: Supporting Children

• Child-Friendly Spaces: Create safe environments for children in crisis situations.
• Response to Trauma: Tailor support for children dealing with abuse and violence.

Module 7: Supporting Staff in Disaster Zones

• Managing Stress in Staff: Recognize signs of burnout and promote self-care.
• Peer Support Networks: Establish peer support systems for staff well-being.

Module 8: Developing Psychosocial Support Groups

• Group Dynamics: Learn to develop and lead effective psychosocial support groups.
• Community Mobilization: Engage communities in support initiatives.

Module 9: Planning Psychosocial Interventions

• Rapid Assessment Techniques: Conduct assessments to inform intervention planning.
• Monitoring & Evaluation Frameworks: Implement M&E strategies to measure effectiveness.