The Faculty of Psychology UGM participated in a psychological counseling program for students of SMPN 1 Turi who survived the river friary disaster last Friday (21/2). Also, they provide psychological assistance to parents of victims of the unfortunate event. The UGM volunteer team consists of lecturers, students, and alumni.
Besides the Faculty of Psychology, there was also a team of volunteers from the UGM Emergency Response Center (GER) formed from UKMs at UGM. It has built a relief post at Gelanggang as well as sending energy assistance during the process of finding victims who lost in the current condition.
Drs. Helly Prajitno Soetjipto, MA., Chairperson of HIMPSI DIY, said the program carried out because of the atmosphere of grief that still surrounds all students of SMPN 1 Turi. He said that today the teaching and learning activities should be operative. However, given the events of last Friday, this program is needed to anticipate the psychological impact on students and parents of students.
“I greeted them today, other teachers and I were touched seeing their enthusiasm despite the tragedy that happened last Friday. I appreciate their presence this morning. Maybe some of them usually come in groups to go to school, but today they may lose one of their friends. However, their presence this morning shows that they have been strong,” said the lecturer of Faculty of Psychology on Monday (24/2).
According to Helly, this effort considered as Psychological First Aid. After the accident, we need to do medical to treat physical injuries first. However, in this event, psychological assistance is also required to maintain mental health.
Finally, Helly hopes that this disaster will be solved soon. “Students who are still under treatment in hospitals may recover soon. And the students who have entered can return as they were before and can continue their learning process. Just pray,” Helly said.
Author: Hakam
Photo: Vino
Translator: Natasa A