Psychological First Aid for People Affected by Skin Diseases

ABSTRACT: Skin diseases, apart from the visible symptoms, can have devastating consequences like depression, anxiety, stigma, or suicidal ideation. These consequently can impact the daily activities and impair socio-occupational functionality. It is crucial to look for the available resources that address the needs of people with skin disease. Experts' consensus recommended that Psychological First Aid (PFA) has to be integrated into mental health guidelines and psychosocial support for skin diseases. Though there is a lack of strong evidence for the effectiveness of PFA, recent independent reviews highlighted the importance of providing the PFA to people who are in need. PFA is a "humane, supportive, and practical approach" focusing on reducing the emotional distress and to foster short and long-term adaptive functioning. PFA has key principles like Promoting Safety and Calm, Providing Practical Assistance, Active Listening, and Emotional Support and Respecting Dignity and Culture. PFA has three action principles: look, listen, and connect/link to provide care without hampering physical or psychological health. Hence, dermatologists and/or health nurses have to be trained to provide the PFA for people with basic needs.