What is the primary goal of Psychological First Aid after a trauma?

The primary goal of Psychological First Aid after a trauma is to reduce initial distress from traumatic events. This approach focuses on the immediate support and care needs of individuals who have experienced trauma, helping them cope with their emotions and reactions during a crisis. By prioritizing the alleviation of distress, Psychological First Aid aims to stabilize individuals, promote a sense of safety, and assist them in accessing further support if needed.

This goal reflects an understanding that immediate emotional responses can be overwhelming after a traumatic experience, and providing a supportive and compassionate presence can significantly aid in an individual's recovery process. The emphasis is on practical assistance, emotional support, and helping individuals to regain their footing in the aftermath of trauma.

Other options such as providing financial assistance or long-term evaluations do not align with the immediate and supportive intentions of Psychological First Aid, which is designed specifically for the short-term alleviation of distress rather than financial or long-term psychological services. Restoring normalcy is important but is not the primary focus of Psychological First Aid, as the immediate goal is to address the initial emotional turmoil rather than suddenly re-establishing a sense of normalcy.