Psychological First Aid (PFA) Tutorial

Functionality & Mechanism

This mobile training resource, developed by the University of Minnesota, supports individuals previously trained in Psychological First Aid (PFA). The interface provides a rapid-response review of PFA's four core actions, including promoting safety, calm, and connectedness. The application also integrates practice scenarios to reinforce user understanding and outlines common stress reactions observed in disaster survivors. It functions as a just-in-time reference tool for responders working in the field following a crisis.

Development & Context

• The app was developed at the University of Minnesota with partial support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• News coverage explains that PFA is an evidence-informed approach for reducing stress symptoms and assisting recovery after a disaster or personal crisis.
• It is designed to assist a wide range of individuals, including children, adults, families, and emergency responders affected by a traumatic event.
• The tool reinforces that PFA is not professional mental health treatment but a supportive strategy to enhance resilience.

Intended Use & Scope

This app is intended as a field guide for first responders, volunteers, and providers who have completed prior training in Psychological First Aid. It functions as an educational support resource for reviewing PFA principles, not as a replacement for formal certification or professional mental health services. Information presented is based on developer materials and news coverage.