crisis response

(interpersonal responses in time of crisis)

 

This one day training module is designed to prepare key staff for handling interpersonal communications during crisis situations or in the aftermath of a disaster. It may be used to compliment disaster incident planning, or in any setting where staff might be expected to respond to others who are themselves distressed because of recent news or events. Typically this would be other staff members, their families or service users. The day focuses on advanced communications techniques, reactions to grief and bereavement, the psychological and behavioural impact of tragedy with suggestions for the appropriate steps to take once the immediate safety and survival concerns have been addressed.

Objectives

.         To raise awareness of the psychological and behavioural responses to tragedy and to consider the impact on self and others

.         To discuss how to communicate most effectively with people who have recently experienced traumatic events

.         To prepare staff so they may act with greater confidence in extreme situations

.         To suggest appropriate humane and effective responses to distress in others

.         To offer guidelines for self care and follow up

Course Content

Outline and expectations for the day
Communication in extreme situations
Typical responses, shock, distress and trauma
Post traumatic stress
Recognising the signs in ourselves and others
Psychological and behavioural reactions
When and how to intervene, what support to offer
Relating to relatives
Denial, uncertainty and hope
Dealing with anger
Supporting colleagues
Constructive questions to ask
Listening and acknowledgement
Empathy versus sympathy
Giving news, good or bad
Post trauma Do's and Don'ts
Handling our own distress
Offers of practical help
Keeping communications open
Cultural and linguistic considerations
A practical guide to feeling better
The healing process