EFFECTIVENESS OF TOT WORKSHOP ON PSYCHOSOCIAL CARE IN DISASTER MANAGEMENT FOR NATIONAL DISASTER RESPONSE FORCE PERSONNEL

Abstract

Introduction: The efficient disaster response will depend primarily on effectiveness of training and re-training of specialized Disaster Response Forces in all dimensions of disaster management that includes psychosocial disaster preparedness. Therefore, NIMHANS and NIDM, collaboratively conducted ToT workshop on psychosocial care in disaster management for NDRF personnel. Methods: The study adopted quasi experimental design with post only research design. There were 20 participants who were part of the training program. The content of the program includes the disaster resilience, need, importance and techniques of psychosocial care; and role of the NDRF personnel in provision of psychosocial care in disaster management. A semi structured questionnaire consisting of socio demographic profile, Overall evaluation of workshop, psychosocial aspects in Disaster Management was developed for assessing the effectiveness of the program. Descriptive statistics was carried out to analyze the data. Results: Majority of the participants found the content of the program from very good to excellent, very well structured and organized. Overall impression of the program was reported as very good to excellent by most of the participants. Conclusion: Integration of psychosocial care services to NDRF personnel in disaster management would equip them to deal with the psychosocial issues effectively. There is also a need to train all the battalions of NDRF as an effective and efficient disaster response force that can deal with the immediate psychosocial impact on survivors of disasters.