Expanding Access to Psychological First Aid Across Hawaiʻi Island

In June, Hawaiʻi broadened its readiness for disaster response by expanding access to Psychological First Aid (PFA)—a practical, evidence-informed approach that helps people offer calm, steady support in the immediate aftermath of a disruptive event. Vibrant Hawaiʻi facilitated Psychological First Aid (MVI-PFA) Instructor training for first responders, mental health professionals, and community members, building a stronger local network equipped to support neighbors, coworkers, and families when stress is high and systems are strained. This effort resulted in the certification of 20 new PFA instructors (19 on Hawaiʻi Island and 1 on Oʻahu), each now able to deliver training within their own communities and workplaces. Since the instructor training, 128 PFA certifications have been issued—significantly expanding the number of residents prepared to recognize stress reactions, provide practical support, and connect people to additional resources.

Psychological First Aid is an intervention model designed to help individuals, families, and responders stabilize, cope, and begin recovery following traumatic events. Through this training, participants learned how to recognize common stress reactions, offer supportive guidance, and connect people to additional resources when needed. Presenters reviewed the eight core actions of PFA and emphasized how the approach can be adapted for different cultures, age groups, and community settings.

The training also focused on real-world application. Participants practiced delivering PFA in a range of scenarios, including natural disasters, human-caused emergencies, and mass violence incidents. Sessions addressed the roles and responsibilities of those using PFA in shelters, outreach settings, and community spaces, and concluded with facilitated discussion to reflect on lessons learned and problem-solve potential obstacles to providing support in different situations.

By growing local expertise and expanding the instructor network, Hawaiʻi is better positioned to respond quickly and effectively—led by people who understand the relationships, cultural context, and rhythms of the communities they serve. Access to PFA training will continue to expand in the coming year, strengthening our capacity to support individual and collective well-being during times of disruption.

Psychological First Aid workshops are two hours and can be provided on-site for community groups, organizations, and employers. For more information or to schedule a training, please contact contact@vibranthawaii.org.