Psychological First Aid Initiative for Medical Students at the Arab American University

Juzoor for Health and Social Development organized A youth-led training initiative on Psychological First Aid and the importance of breaking the stigma associated with mental health, targeting the medical students at the Arab American University – Ramallah Campus, with the participation of 83 students. The initiative aimed to enhance awareness of mental health and equip participants with essential knowledge and skills to cope with psychological stress and crises.

The initiative included a specialized training delivered by the Palestine Red Crescent Society, focusing on the principles of Psychological First Aid, effective communication, immediate emotional support, and identifying cases requiring further intervention and referral. The training used interactive methods such as group discussions, role-playing, and case studies. In addition, Juzoor also implemented an awareness session on youth mental health, during which participants were introduced to the available mental health and psychosocial support services in Palestine. This was delivered through awareness messages accompanied by a QR code to facilitate access to mental health and psychosocial support services’ directory, in addition to introducing Juzoor’s free helpline.

The helpline provides a safe and confidential space for psychological and social support, delivered by a specialized team offering assistance with professionalism and respect. Anyone can contact the helpline to receive consultation via 1800-500-600.

This initiative was implemented as part of the “Mental Health Matters” project, implemented by Juzoor in partnership with CARE Palestine, through the Belgian agency for international cooperation (Enabel), with the support from the Belgian government.