Crisis Response Services

Critical incidents occur when someone experiences an unusual event which would be highly stressful to anyone such as:

• sudden or unexpected death,
• severe injury,
• domestic or personal violence,
• unexpected medical or surgical outcomes, and/or
• exposure to disaster.

Events such as these or exposure to situations that resemble them, can cause people to experience distress and can challenge our personal and professional resiliency. Regardless of the event, employees and managers need immediate expert support and guidance in the aftermath of a crisis or unexpected distressing event.

Emotional Support for Individuals & Groups

Our staff provides services that can mitigate the impact of critical incident stress. Individual and group services are intended to assess departmental needs and provide supportive, compassionate guidance on self-care. When necessary, referrals for additional care will be made.

The following are offered as part of our services:

• Consultations with managers and supervisors to plan a response to staff who are coping with the event.
• Briefings for employees offer tips for coping with the event.
• Small group interventions provide initial support and psychological first-aid following a traumatic/distressing event.
• Same-day appointments are available for those in crisis.
• Individual assessment and referrals for employees managing an event.
• Managerial coaching for supervisors includes suggestions for supporting employees in and out of the workplace.
• Resource materials for individuals impacted by the distressing event or crisis.
• Follow-up services assess the functioning and recovery of impacted staff.

Common Reactions to Crisis

Bouncing back from a distressing event is a unique process and there is no exact formula for recovery. Individuals may experience a broad range of reactions that may be physical, cognitive, emotional, or behavioral in nature. No two people’s reactions will be the same. It is important to remember that such reactions are normal for people to experience when faced with such an event. Most people recover and return to work without additional impact. Occasionally, individuals may need additional support.

The staff at PAS will assist you in understanding the normal response to grief and traumatic stress, as well as how to adopt positive coping strategies and foster resiliency. PAS can be a resource for you and your department to find the best ways to encourage recovery and create a new normal.