Combat / Enhancements & Enfeeblements
The yellow bars in the party list indicate the use of barrier effects such as scholar's Adloquium, which absorb damage equal to a portion of your HP. While under such an effect, any damage incurred will be taken from the barrier first.
There are a number of other effects in addition to barriers that can be used to mitigate enemy damage. Learn to use them effectively and turn the tide of battle in your favor.
Learn more about actions and their effects in the job guide.