60 Children in West Pasaman Get Psychosocial Support Services

The Jakarta Humanitarian Collaboration Task Force provided Psychological First Aid (PFA) services for 60 children affected by the earthquake in West Pasaman, West Sumatra.

Hopefully, they can be cheerful again and forget what happened to them

It was conducted in Lubuk Panjang Village, Talamau Sub-district, and the refugee post in the yard of the West Pasaman Regent's Office House.

While accompanied by their parents, they seemed enthusiastic to enjoy the activity while playing, singing, and listening to fairy tales. They also received logistical assistance, food, and beverages.

Jakarta Task Force Helps Ease Burden of West Pasaman Earthquake Survivors

Jakarta Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) Head, Isnawa Adji disclosed that it was aimed at restoring the mental health or psychology of the victims after the earthquake.

"At first they just sit and be quiet. After we invite them to play, they come back cheerful. They have even started to open up to other people," he explained, Monday (3/7).

He added that it also aimed at reducing stress reactions, calm and creating a sense of comfort, and establishing a connection to other sources of help. By so, they could get carried away with the happy mood without thinking about the conditions they were in right now.

"Hopefully, they can be cheerful again and forget what happened to them," he hoped.