Exploration and Evaluation of PFA (Psychological First Aid): Potential for Development of PFA Online Services in Academic Setting

Abstract

In Indonesia, PFA (Psychological First Aid) services are primarily employed in distress situations; however, a relatively small number are used in crisis situations, mainly in academic settings through the use of digital media, or what is commonly referred to as PFA online services. Teman Sehati, a PFA online service provided by UIN Prof. K.H. Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto, will be addressed in this study. In order to encourage the use of mental health services in academic settings, this research attempts to present an overview of PFA online services. The CIPPO approach (Context Evaluation, Input Evaluation, Process Evaluation, Product Evaluation, and Outcome) was used in the research to apply qualitative evaluation. Research collection methods include documenting, interviewing, and observation. Sorting, classifying, summarising, indexing, and researching primary and secondary sources are all methods used in data analysis. The results of the study indicate that since rooms, networks, and electronic devices serve as the main method of maintaining the service, it is necessary to increase the availability of reliable internet. Every semester, increasing numbers of individuals are in need of this service due to a variety of issues, including physiologic disorders, bullying, financial difficulties, sexual harassment, work-related issues, psychological disorders, academic difficulties, romantic issues, family issues, and personal issues. The online PFA service at UIN Prof. K.H. Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto is deemed highly helpful by 92% of service users. Online PFA services can aid in treating students' mental health, despite certain technological challenges; for this reason, it is crucial to implement them in the academic setting.