Link Training Module on the Right to Mental Health for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Frequent needs: • Basic needs such as shelter, food, water, and sanitation • Health services for injuries or help with chronic or long-term medical conditions • Understandable and correct information about the event, loved ones, and available services • Being able to contact loved ones, friends, and other social support • Access to specific support related to one’s culture or religion • Being consulted and involved in important decisions People may feel vulnerable, isolated, or powerless after a distressing event. In some situations, their daily life is disrupted. They may be unable to access their usual source of support, or they may find themselves suddenly living in stressful conditions. Linking people with practical support is a major part of PFA. Remember that PFA is often a one-time intervention and you may only be there to help for a short time. Affected people will need to use their own coping skills to recover in the long term. Help people to help themselves and to regain control of their situation. Help People Address Basic Needs and Access Services In helping people to address basic needs, consider the following: • Immediately after a crisis event, try to help the person in distress to meet the basic needs they request such as food, water, shelter and sanitation. • Learn what specific needs people have – such as health care, clothing or items for feeding small children (cups and bottles) – and try to link them to the help available. • Make sure the vulnerable or marginalized are not overlooked. • Follow up with people if you promise to do so. Help People Cope with Problems A person in distress can feel overwhelmed with worries and fears. Help them to consider their most urgent needs, and how to prioritize and address them. For example, you can ask them to think about what they need to address now, and what can wait for later. Being able to manage a few issues will give the person a greater sense of control over the situation and strengthen their own ability to cope. Remember to: • Help people identify supports in their life, such as friends or family, who can help them in the current situation; • Give practical suggestions for people to meet their own needs (for example, 15