The generalist dimension of the Red Cross but also the unconditionality of the aid provided allows it to establish new modes of intervention based on the needs and situations experienced by the people it supports. This is the case with psychological disorders, which are increasingly common and sometimes difficult to detect. To alleviate this type of suffering, the association has put in place new measures. First of all, a dedicated service, “Red Cross at your service”, accessible on 0800 858 858, allows all those who feel the need to be listened to and to discuss their difficulties. Convivial calls – free, anonymous and confidential – from the association’s volunteers can then be regularly scheduled.
This problem is such that training in psychological first aid (PSP) is now provided to first aid teams. Adopting the right behavior when dealing with a person in distress, whose trauma is not necessarily physical, can also be learned. How can you reassure others, not judge them, guide them, remain silent if necessary, protect yourself, actively listen…? So many facets of psychological first aid to provide. For a long time, mental health remained in the blind spot of personal assistance, associating emergency with physical danger, with bodily accident, but rarely with the discomfort of the soul. However, there are “affordable, effective and feasible strategies to promote, protect and restore mental health”, according to the WHO. For volunteers, these are additional keys to being “helpful” and supporting a person on a psychological level during a mission but also after an emergency situation. The person can thus be referred to an internal Red Cross service or external systems.
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