Crisis Intervention

First psychological aid to support people in a state of crisis, that helps in the immediate and draws a path back to happiness

Crisis intervention is a short-term management technique designed to reduce potential permanent damage to an individual affected by a crisis. A crisis is defined as an overwhelming event, which can include divorce, violence, the passing of a loved one, or the discovery of a serious illness. A successful intervention involves obtaining background information on the patient, establishing a positive relationship, discussing the events, and providing emotional support.

Also in crisis intervention Psychological First Aid usually takes place.

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an evidence-informed approach that is built on the concept of human resilience. PFA aims to reduce stress symptoms and assist in a healthy recovery following a traumatic event, natural disaster, public health emergency, or even a personal crisis.

Emotional distress is not always as visible as a physical injury, but is just as painful and debilitating.

After going through a life altering experience it is common to be affected emotionally

• Everybody who experiences a disaster is touched by it
• Reactions manifest differently at different periods of time during and after the incident.

Some common stress reactions include:

• Confusion
• Fear
• Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
• Sleep problems
• physical pain
• anxiety
• Anger
• Grief
• Shock
• Aggressiveness
• Withdrawal
• Guilt
• Shaken religious faith
• Loss of confidence in self or others.

Physical First Aid is used to reduce physical discomfort due to a bodily injury, it is a strategy to reduce the painful range of emotions and responses experienced by people exposed to high stress

Goal of Psychological First Aid

The goal of Psychological First Aid is to create and sustain an environment of:
1) Safety
2) Calm & Comfort
3) Connectedness
4) Self-Empowerment, and
5) Hope

Psychological First Aid addresses basic needs and reduces psychological distress by providing a caring, comforting presence, and education on common stress reactions. It empowers the individual by supporting strengths and encouraging existing coping skills. It also provides connections to natural support networks, and referrals to professional services when needed.

Psychological First Aid is a tool that each of us can use to reduce our stress level. By understanding your stress reactions and utilizing Psychological First Aid principles, you can enhance resilience in yourself, your family, workplace, and community.