ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) has begun providing Psychological First Aid (PFA) to students of Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) following a shooting incident involving a minor on August 18.
Eight students, aged 11 to 14, received psychological intervention from DSWD mental health professionals on Wednesday, August 19, as part of efforts to help them process the emotional impact of the incident.
The intervention provided the students with a safe and supportive space where they could express and process their emotions. Mental health professionals also guided them in developing healthy coping mechanisms to help them deal with the trauma brought by the incident.
The DSWD said it is also prepared to provide aftercare services and additional interventions to students and members of the school community who may require further assistance.
These interventions may include Enhanced Trauma-Informed Care, medical assistance, and Parent Effectiveness Sessions (PES), which are intended to help students, parents and the wider school community cope with the aftermath of the incident.
The agency emphasized the importance of sustained psychosocial support as affected students gradually work toward regaining their sense of safety, security and emotional well-being.
The DSWD’s response forms part of its efforts to provide immediate and continuing support to children and communities affected by traumatic incidents.
