As scientific studies show again and again, good mental health is the fundament for an individual’s wellbeing. As a humanitarian organization whose fundamental aim is the support and protection of human beings, IOM actively engages in providing mental health and psychological support to migrants.  

After going through a life altering experience it is normal for every person to be effected emotionally. Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an evidence-informed approach that is built on the concept of human resilience. PFA aims to reduce stress symptoms and assist in a healthy recovery following a traumatic event, armed conflict, natural disaster, public health emergency, or even a personal crisis. 

In relation to that psychologists from the IOM-Bulgaria’s mobile teams presented the topic of “Psychological First Aid” in an online training for volunteers that took place on 19.11.2022.. The participants were international medical students, studying at the University of Varna who are actively providing support to people, fleeing the war in Ukraine. A total of 11 people participated in the training.  

The discussion focused on the provision of psychological first aid and also how to approach and provide assistance to vulnerable people in a crisis situation. Along the other discussed topics, the IOM team members and the participants worked on defining psychological first-line psychological care. During the training, the IOM psychologists further share their experience with migrants from Ukraine and the support they provide, as well as other methods of psychological assistance.