| Types of Critical Incident Stress Management Debriefing |
| Abate Counselling & EAP Limited has CISM support mechanisms, which include the following: |
| 1. Defusing: Those directly involved in an incident meet as a group with a “peer supporter” the purpose of which is to discuss the experience and normalise their reaction to it. They are given practical advice in relation to the reaction they are likely to experience and how best to care for themselves. Defusing does not delve deeply into the incident, as its impact may not be fully absorbed. |
| 2. Critical Incident Stress Debriefing: Individuals directly involved in a critical incident meet as a group with a trained specialist who works with them in dealing with their reactions. |
| 3. Individual Sessions: Those involved may have individual needs in coping with the present traumatic event or where other past experiences have been evoked. Face-to-face counselling sessions are designed to enable the individual discuss their concerns and identify whatever ongoing support may be needed. |
| 4. Demobilising: This is a procedure carried out when large numbers of people are involved in major disasters such as plane accidents, earthquakes and train disasters. Its primary function is looking after the basic needs of the people involved in such traumatic events i.e. food, rest and gathering information. |
5. Follow Up Care: Follow up care will vary from incident to incident. Some individuals may develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) immediately after the event while others may have delayed onset six months after the incident. Provision should be made for ongoing trauma counselling and aftercare.
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