Training Module on the Right to Mental Health for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) • Are there areas to avoid entering because they are not secure (for example, physical dangers) or because you are not allowed to be there? Action Principles of PFA: LOOK, LISTEN, LINK The three basic action principles of PFA are look, listen, and link. These action principles will help guide how you view and safely enter a crisis situation, approach affected people, understand their needs, and link them with practical support and information. LOOK • Check for safety. • Check for people with obvious urgent basic needs. • Check for people with serious distress reactions. LISTEN • Approach people who may need support. • Ask about people’s needs and concerns. • Listen to people, and help them to feel calm. LINK • Help people address basic needs and access services. • Give information. • Connect people with loved ones and social support. People who are likely to need special attention in a crisis: • Children—including adolescents, especially those separated from their caregivers—may need protection from abuse and exploitation. They will also likely need care from those around them and help to meet their basic needs. • People with health conditions or physical and mental disabilities may need special help to get to a safe place, to be protected from abuse, and to access medical care and other services. This may include frail elderly people, pregnant women, people with severe mental disorders, or people with visual or hearing difficulties. • People at risk of discrimination or violence, such as women or people of certain ethnic groups, may need special protection to be safe in the crisis setting and support to access available help. How to approach people who may need support: • Approach people respectfully and according to their culture. • Introduce yourself by name and organization. • Ask if you can provide help. • If possible, find a safe and quiet place to talk. • Help the person feel comfortable; for example, offer water if you can. 13