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As we found out, it even included some post disaster play acting:..

Dr. Claudina Cayetano - Psychiatrist in the Ministry of Health
"Actually this is number 7 training of this kind and I am very excited that we are doing it in San Pedro because we have done it in all the other districts. The difference with the districts is that we do it with the community health workers but in San Pedro as you notice we have different background of people in the room which is great because in providing psychological first aid, anyone who has the skill can do that."

Devora Kestel, Mental Health Regional Advisor
"We are basically trying to transmit the components of this training technique that is called psychological first aid and that it consisting of very humane practical respectful way of approaching those in need by listening to their problems, by asking what their problems are and again by facilitating and providing the right information on where to find some of those practical things they may need."

"This technique can be used by a number of professionals. They do not need to be mental health professionals. It help anybody that has gone through distressful situation. What we are trying to emphasize here is that by offering practical support to people you offer as well a psychological wellbeing."

"We are trying to give some elements to consider what needs to be done in order to help those people feel better by offering practical health."

Jeromey Timrose Augustine
"I believe that psychological first aid for first responders in a disaster is going to assist us when we are responding to a scenario to people who have been affected by an incident by keeping them calm."

Dr. Claudina Cayetano
"This place is very vulnerable so a preparation is very important."

This is the seventh such course being offered by the ministry.