Unfortunately, every two by three we see in the news natural disasters that hit our planet, terrorist attacks, accidents and other situations that have an impact on us.
Most of us know how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation or various basic first aid techniques. But, do we know how to psychologically help a person in a crisis and emergency situation?
We cannot eliminate the pain that a family member feels for a loved one who has passed away or erase the terrifying memory of a person who has gone through a tragedy, but we can accompany him and help him go through those bitter moments, we can make him understand what is happening to him and, above all, listen to it.
Here are four basic guidelines:
- As the person becomes less likely to face or escape danger, and the danger becomes more imminent, the likelihood increases that their fear will escalate into panic and become more difficult to communicate with.
In the event of a strong emotional impact event, it is difficult to establish effective communication, because the person affected by the situation may be responding more emotionally than rationally. Do not try to “make her see reason” through advice or explanations.
- The more uncontrolled the person is, the more firm and simple the instructions are.
When the person is in danger, they may find themselves anxious, disoriented, and even feeling unreality, that what is happening is not true. For these reasons it is unlikely that you will be able to process or understand long messages. Thus, it is convenient to give firm but calm instructions, and brief but concrete.
As the individual becomes calmer and more confident, the operations that are going to be performed or are being carried out can be explained to him as long as he is not going to be alarmed further.
- Insofar as possible, ensure minimum conditions of rest, away from any direct visual stimulus associated with the tragedy.
One of the main objectives is to make affected people feel safe and protected.
- Actively listen and allow the manifestation of emotions.
Listen actively to the person, allowing him to express himself, and transmit that his reaction is normal and that most people recover from stress reactions.
Finally, mention that prevention is a very important aspect. What can we do to protect ourselves?
- Know the natural and artificial factors that can be a threat in the home and the city (fires, floods, earthquakes ...).
- Know the evacuation plan of the building where you live and of the company in which you work.
- Know and adopt adequate self-protection plans for detected threats.
- Training in first aid.
- Perform and participate in a "serious" way in the drills.
At Healthy Work, we have psychologists who specialize in crisis intervention and have psychologically assisted numerous employees and family members who have unfortunately suffered traumatic situations in our country. If you need help, do not hesitate to contact us.
Maria Jose Ortega