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The Components of Crisis Intervention

The CISM package includes integrated, multi-component crisis intervention strategies helpful in the aftermath of a traumatic event. The type of intervention used depends on the situation, the number of people involved, and their proximity to the event. The goal of the intervention is to address the trauma. Read More

The Crisis Management Briefing

A Crisis Management Briefing (CMB) is one of the most highly utilized and versatile crisis intervention techniques. A CMB is a structured group meeting designed to provide information about the event. A CMB is an opportunity for managers to demonstrate a sense of leadership, reduce chaos, enhance credibility, and control rumors. A CMB is an information "push" provided for groups of 15 to 20 people to over 200 or more.

The CMB is commonly referred to as a "town hall meeting" due to its venue, structure, and format. Critical Incident Peer Support Groups use CMBs to share education about typical stress reactions and provide information about essential stress management, coping techniques, and resources. In addition, a CMB is an avenue to generate cohesion, re-gain a sense of camaraderie, and re-establish a sense of community. Read More

Critical Incident Stress Debriefing

The Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) is a specific technique designed to assist others in dealing with the physical or psychological symptoms that are generally associated with trauma exposure. Most approaches to CISD incorporate one or more aspects of the seven-part model in the CISD design. The CISD alone is generally not the only crisis intervention technique used. Participation in CISD is voluntary, and attendance should never be mandatory.

CISD is perhaps the most misunderstood and overused term in the Critical Incident Stress Management program. The word "debriefing" often serves as a "catch-all" for various crisis intervention protocols that are substantially different from the CISD application and structure. Of most significance, CISD is intended for small groups and was never designed for primary victims or in a one-on-one setting. Not everyone involved in a critical incident requires a debriefing.

Misuse of the debriefing risks heightening the effect of the trauma, and reactions may be more severe. I may also compromise the healing and recovery process.Read More