Dr Venese Madden, chair for the department of Graduate Psychology at NCU, said the impact of the category 5 hurricane provided an “opportunity for us as professionals and academicians to extend a helping hand to our fellow citizens in a time of crisis.” She explained that the NCU team of facilitators prioritised the training of emergency first responders because their actions will have a multiplying effect on helping a greater number of people in need of psychosocial support.
The NCU core team for this initiative included Drs. Venese Madden, Grace Kelly and Cheril Thompson. Other
counsellors and graduate students in the department of Graduate Psychology volunteered their services. The sessions included stress management and selfcare tips along with brief psychological first aid training.
According to participants from the Jamaica Defense Force (JDF) Health Services Corps, “The training was well-delivered, practical, and relevant to current operational needs. Participants reported increased confidence in recognising distress, applying coping techniques, and responding safely to high-risk situations such as suicide or acute emotional breakdowns.”The JDF participants added that the session strengthened their capacity to provide mental-health support during deployment and emergency operations. “We look forward to continued partnership and future opportunities for certification-level training,” they said.
Members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force Manchester Division also received training from the NCU team.
Responding on behalf of colleagues, Constable Shauna Thompson-Daley from the Alligator Pond Police Station said: “The session on Psychological First had a profound impact on me. It taught me invaluable lessons about supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, particularly in the aftermath of crises like hurricanes.” She added: “I gained a deeper understanding of providing both physical and emotional support, as well as the importance of mindful body language when responding to someone in crisis. I also appreciated the opportunity to share my own experiences with trauma. I would definitely attend another session like this in the future.”Firefighters from the Black River and Savanna-la -mar fire stations also expressed satisfaction for the session by the NCU psychologists. Joseph Thomas, acting senior superintendent and chaplain of the Jamaica Fire Brigade said the session was well received by fire fighters and effectively addressed the areas where they had concerns. “The chaplaincy department is grateful for your contribution to the wellbeing of our firefighters,” said Thomas.
Commenting on the initiative by the Graduate Psychology department, Carlene Barrett, associate vice-president at NCU, said it was part of a broader post-Melissa response under the banner of “NCU Cares”. This involves academicians from the institution providing information and technical assistance to individuals and organisations to facilitate their recovery. She disclosed that the university has provided care packages to students and their immediate families as well as to residents in communities most affected by Hurricane Melissa.
Written by CCMPR
Source: Northern Caribbean University