CRISIS SUPPORT
In times of crisis, organisations want to know that they can rely on the best possible support, ideally based on decades of experience and thorough scientific research. Pulso uses the following three guiding principles in its advice and crisis interventions, based on the latest scientific literature and building on its many years of practical experience in the field of crisis management:
1. Promote social support
Scientific research has shown that the lack of social support in the first moments after a critical event is one of the most important risk factors for developing Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Brewin et al., 2000; Olff et al., 2019; Ozer et al., 2003). Therefore, this is one of the focus areas that Pulso emphasises in its approach. Witnesses or victims of critical incidents should by no means be left to their own devices; they should be taken care of as soon as possible (preferably within the first hour).
Research also confirms that promoting social support has a calming effect on victims and instils a sense of security, self and community efficacy, connectedness and hope (Hobfoll et al., 2007).
In counselling and in our crisis interventions, we focus on (1) installing safety (physical and psychological), through support and a listening ear, (2) providing information and (3) reassuring people, in short our SIR principle (Safety – Information – Reassuring).
2. Importance of good health detection and monitoring
When provided with this social support, 85-90% of victims show resilience and recover without further professional help (Erik De Soir; Olff et al., 2019; Roberts et al., 2019). Therefore, Pulso does not believe in providing psychological (follow-up) interventions to all victims unnecessarily. We rather believe it is important to focus (follow-up) interventions primarily on those in need and on the 10-15% of victims with an increased risk of developing PTSD. In consultation with the people involved, our advice and interventions focus on detecting the needs and further follow-up of at-risk victims. It is also possible to contact Pulso’s helpline at any time (24/7) if necessary.
3. Following the rhythm of the victims
Finally, Pulso attaches great importance to tailor-made solutions, especially in the context of crisis interventions. After all, we are dealing with an abnormal situation where a lot is uncertain and unclear. The intervention that follows a crisis situation should therefore always be well adapted to the specific needs. There is no "standard plan" at hand when an incident occurs. That's why Pulso attaches great importance to the first exploratory contacts we have with the organisation after a critical incident. This way, we tune our initiatives to the needs and rhythm of the victims in order to prevent them from getting worse.
After the intervention, we will always discuss with the organisation the need for follow-up and help them address these needs..
Interested in learning more about our crisis support? Contact us.
This programme aims to prepare staff members within an organisation to take on the task of supporting employees after a crisis incident. Research has shown that proper assistance in the first moments is crucial and that victims prefer to be assisted by acquaintances/colleagues. That is why an internal crisis team is indispensable.
This training takes place in small groups, focusing on providing basic information on crisis incidents, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as teaching skills for conducting crisis response interviews and debriefings. Principles are based upon the cognitive behavioural therapy and EMDR.
Recommended for those who will take on the internal role of trauma counsellor and wish to update their support skills. But also for those employees, managers and groups who may be confronted with crisis incidents.
Interested in learning more about our offer on training for crisis counsellors? Contact us
