What are the top coping mechanisms for critical incident response teams?

Critical incident response teams (CIRTs) are groups of professionals who provide psychological support and crisis intervention to people affected by traumatic events, such as natural disasters, mass shootings, terrorist attacks, or accidents. CIRTs face high levels of stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue, which can impair their mental and physical health, performance, and well-being. Therefore, it is essential for CIRTs to adopt effective coping mechanisms to manage their stress and prevent negative outcomes. In this article, we will discuss the top coping mechanisms for CIRTs, based on research and best practices.

1 Pre-incident preparation

One of the best ways to cope with stress is to prepare for it in advance. CIRTs should undergo regular training and education on stress management, trauma-informed care, self-care, and resilience. They should also familiarize themselves with the protocols, policies, and resources of their organization and the incident site. By doing so, they can enhance their confidence, competence, and readiness to face challenging situations.

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Zsa Zsa Tudos

Founder of WanderWisdom Club Membership, Transformational Life Coach, Psychological Recreation, Esoteric Knowledge Expert, Knowledge of Ancient Egypt, Al Khemi, Creator of AKIA Philosophy, Author, Educator
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If they are not dealt with properly, critical incidents can undermined the credibility, productivity and the leadership of a workplace and the employees alike. Therefore it is essential to establish a sophisticated response team with thorough knowledge on the protocol and policies the company set up to follow. Naturally, it only works if employees are also aware of such rules. The delicate job of the team becomes important if the incident happens outside of the protocol. In this case, all parties involved need to be examined and the root established. It is vital to stay neutral in this process. In cases, it is rewarding to bring in outsiders to examine the situation and deal with the traumatic aftermath of the incident.

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2 Self-awareness and monitoring

Another important coping mechanism is to be aware of one's own stress levels, reactions, and needs. CIRTs should monitor their physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral signs of stress, such as fatigue, anxiety, irritability, or difficulty concentrating. They should also identify their personal triggers, vulnerabilities, and strengths. By being self-aware and monitoring, they can recognize when they need to take a break, seek help, or adjust their strategies.

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3 Self-care and wellness

CIRTs should also prioritize their self-care and wellness, especially during and after a critical incident. Self-care and wellness involve taking care of one's basic needs, such as sleep, nutrition, hydration, and exercise. They also involve engaging in activities that promote relaxation, recovery, and enjoyment, such as meditation, hobbies, or socializing. By practicing self-care and wellness, CIRTs can reduce their stress, boost their energy, and restore their balance.

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Chayelle Rose

Helping female CEO's balance business and life🔹️Founder of Present Parenting🔹️Author of "You Don't Need Fixing"🔹️Three Principles Coach🔹️ I love people 🔹️Mum of 5
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People have to be highly in tune with what is going on. We have to be open to the cues our body gives up and open to the wisdom inside that tells us what to do. The more we tap into that, the more we can be the well that keeps giving.

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4 Social support and peer support

CIRTs should not cope with stress alone. They should seek and offer social support and peer support to their colleagues, family, friends, and other sources of help. Social support and peer support can provide emotional, informational, practical, and moral assistance, as well as a sense of belonging, validation, and solidarity. By accessing social support and peer support, CIRTs can share their experiences, feelings, and challenges, and receive feedback, advice, and encouragement.

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Alicia Alvarez, PhD

Director of Clinical and Research Services at UTCCB
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In my experience the clue is to combine Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) techniques and social support. CISM techniques and social support, including peer support, are essential components of coping mechanisms for critical incident response teams. By combining structured interventions with interpersonal connections and support networks, teams can effectively navigate the emotional challenges of their roles and maintain resilience in the face of adversity. Conducting a defusing, a debriefing, or foster a supportive team environment where members can openly discuss their feelings and experiences, serves to encourage peer support networks and provide opportunities for team members to debrief and process emotions together.

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5 Professional support and supervision

CIRTs should also consult and collaborate with professional support and supervision, such as mental health professionals, supervisors, mentors, or coaches. Professional support and supervision can provide expert guidance, feedback, evaluation, and referral to CIRTs. They can also help CIRTs cope with ethical dilemmas, complex cases, or legal issues. By utilizing professional support and supervision, CIRTs can enhance their skills, knowledge, and performance, and address any issues or concerns.

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6 Reflection and learning

The last coping mechanism we will discuss is reflection and learning. CIRTs should reflect on their experiences, actions, and outcomes during and after a critical incident. They should also learn from their successes, failures, and feedback. By doing so, they can improve their understanding, awareness, and competence. They can also identify their areas of improvement, strengths, and goals. By reflecting and learning, CIRTs can grow professionally and personally, and increase their satisfaction and resilience.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are the top coping mechanisms for critical incident response teams?

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1 Pre-incident preparation

2 Self-awareness and monitoring

3 Self-care and wellness

4 Social support and peer support

5 Professional support and supervision

6 Reflection and learning

7 Here’s what else to consider

Stress Management

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What are the top coping mechanisms for critical incident response teams?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Pre-incident preparation

2 Self-awareness and monitoring

3 Self-care and wellness

4 Social support and peer support

5 Professional support and supervision

6 Reflection and learning

7 Here’s what else to consider

Stress Management

Rate this article

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