“Crisis
is a danger because it threatens to overwhelm the individual
or his family, and it may result in suicide or a psychotic
break. It is also an opportunity because during times
of crisis individuals are more receptive to therapeutic
influence. Prompt and skillful intervention may not
only prevent the development of a serious long-term disability
but may also allow new coping patterns to emerge that can
help the individual function at a higher level of equilibrium
than before the crisis” (Aguilera, 1998, p. 1).
From: Aguilera,
D. C. (1998). Crisis intervention: Theory and methodology,
8th ed. St. Louis, MO: Mosby, Inc.
There
are numerous diverse professionals who encounter individuals
in crisis and more specifically potentially suicidal individuals
in crisis. These professions include EMTBs, EMTPs,
individuals working in a crisis services agency or center,
crisis hotline workers, and many other first responder and
crisis services.
According
to the American Association of Suicidology (AAS), a crisis
is an acute emotional upset arising from situational, developmental,
or social sources and resulting in a temporary inability to
cope by means of one's usual problem-solving devices (Reference
1).
Crisis workers,
EMTBs and EMTPs work in professional or volunteer positions
that intervene during acute suicidal crises. The interventions
used by crisis workers, EMTBs and EMTP's may differ depending
on the individual case and care needed, but the stresses and
human contact involved in all crisis-centered professions have
similar characteristics. And, crisis-centered professionals
can make a difference in successful suicide prevention efforts.
Learning
more about suicide including associated factors and potentially
effective interventions can help Crisis workers, EMTBs, and
EMTPs to be proactive and leaders in their respective fields.
Involving
yourself in local, national, and global prevention initiatives
can make a difference to persons at risk for suicide.
Engaging in consistent self-care efforts can help you and encourage
colleagues who need to better take care of themselves in the
stressful and emotionally-full positions of Crisis professionals.
Education
is essential to effective production within your professional
or volunteer position as a Crisis Worker, EMTB or EMTP. Find
continuing education information as well as information on topics
like professional organizations, conferences, and publications.
Research
is critical to maintain current knowledge of suicide and suicide
prevention. Find resources related to research like statistics,
research institutions, and clinical trials to help Crisis Workers,
EMTBs and EMTPs learn more about the latest suicide prevention
research available.
All
suicide prevention resources for Crisis Workers, EMTBs or EMTPs
do not fit into the above categories. Find general resources
specific to your interests as a Crisis professional.
Crisis worker as intermediary
pages were last updated June 3, 2004
