Crisis Intervention Counseling

Stress Management Consulting Certification Blog on PTSD

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome is a severe reaction to a stressor so intense that it imprints upon the mind and brain its terrifying nature.  The long lasting effects can result in intense anxiety as well as for some dissociation disorder.  The effects can last months after or continue to haunt the person throughout life.   In previous eras, it was referred to as Shell Shock as experienced by WWI soldiers but while many soldiers experience PTSD, it can happen to any group of person.

Traumas can be related to war but also to any type of traumatic event than can happen in civilian life as well.  Among the type of traumas imposed upon the person include intentional traumas caused by other humans which are the hardest to overcome, as well as human caused accidents and acts of nature, which are usually easier to recover.  It is more difficult to overcome intentional acts of humans because these acts of trauma are most associated with evil itself.   War, abuse, rape, incest, torture, criminal assault, hostage, bombings, terrorism, suicide, kidnapping, riots, participating in violence, and death threats are a few examples of these severe types of trauma.

Human caused traumas not associated with evil intent still can cause trauma but they are not as mentally crushing to the individual.  These types of traumas include industrial accidents, fires, explosions, motor vehicle or plane crashes, nuclear disasters or collapses of buildings.   Less traumatic but still impactful or acts of nature, which include any type of storm or geological event, or sudden deaths not associated with evil intent.

Trauma so severe can cause anxiety and dissociation. Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Program

 

Many individuals suffer greatly in this world and the above stressors and trauma inducing events are well above one’s average bad day but are life altering events in many cases.  This can cause severe trauma and not allow the mind to properly process the event.  The exposure to this stressor leads to an intense fear or horror to the event itself.   In assessing PTSD, the events must be re-experienced via intrusive recollections, dreams, and hallucinations that can be activated due to similar cues.   The individual in turn will attempt to avoid numerous things to escape these intrusive reminders.   The individual will try to block thoughts, feelings, places,  and activities to avoid it.  They will disassociate in events and people and try to detach themselves.

In essence, the PTSD interrupts life in all aspects.  Individuals will have trouble sleeping, become irritable easily, not be able to concentrate, become hypervigilant, and have exaggerated responses to some stimuli.  This type of behavior can last acutely for one month, chronically for six months or more and can even be delayed, well after the event and re-emerge months later.

Those who suffer from PTSD face two major symptoms, high levels of anxiety and dissociation.

Severe anxiety leaves the person in constant distress even if the stressor is no longer present.  It can manifest physically upon the person through fatigue, tension, nausea, digestive track inflammation, hyperventilation, suffocating feelings, and a wide array of panic attacks.  Emotionally it can cause irritation, fear, exaggeration of emotions and loss of confidence.  Mentally, anxiety can cause confusion, lack of concentration, poor memory and inability to make decisions.  Spiritually, one may encounter hopelessness and despair.  Many look to avoid stressors that naturally cause these feelings and the person will become more reclusive.

In regards to dissociation, most healthy individuals possess an associated consciousness that engages in life, but when a trauma so terrible occurs, the mind does not process the terrible event in long term memory and it is trapped in short term memory.  Without proper processing, the trauma continues to haunt the person.  It is hence natural, during a horrible event to dissociate from it.  When something is so horrible to comprehend, the body for its own protection will tune out.  Unfortunately, the unprocessed and walled off trauma is highly unstable and very accessible.  It is also very emotional and non verbal and hence impressionable via our senses.  The trauma is very fragmented and associated with multiple triggers due to this.  The senses of sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, pressure and pain can all awaken these fragmented traumas and cause recollections.  The trauma can also be re-awakened by significant dates or seasons or events, as well as tied to strong emotions, thoughts and behaviors.   Sometimes the arousal is due to a combination of senses.

Dissociation looks to defend the individual from the horrific nature of the event itself.  During a horrible event, the person may depersonalize from the event itself, as if separating from oneself and watching.  Another form of this is derealization where the person real believe the event was not real but a dream.  Some individuals actually lose parts of the memory itself.  Amnesia and forgetting the event looks to help the person forget the horrific nature of it all together, while some may enter into a fugue where an individual has no memory whatsoever of how one got from one place to another during the episode.

The worst type of trauma is the type caused intentionally by other people. Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program

 

The most severe form of dissociation is Dissociative Identity Disorder when a person actually creates multiple identities to deal with the trauma itself.  Also known as Multiple Personality Disorder, one creates other personalities with stronger characteristics to protect the host from the trauma itself.

Associated with dissociation and anxiety are a variety of associated features that can become attached to PTSD.  Many individuals who suffer from PTSD also exhibit a variety of these features in their behavior.

When severe trauma occurs, many have a death imprint that forever changes their outlook on life.   This leads to repeating within the mind how they wish they behaved or acted.  In this, they may feel extreme shame or guilt, or survivor guilt.  Others will develop a severe anxiety with any topic of death itself.   With severe trauma, others may also experience shattered world views.  One may doubt his or her faith or question how one exists.  Such an existential crisis is very common.

There are also a variety of mood disturbances that one may encounter fights with depression and also addiction. Impulsive behaviors can also occur  where individuals try to make sudden changes to escape the pain as well as over compensations in other roads of life.   Some will also try to relive their trauma and re-enact them in contrast to others The mind also can negatively affect the body and there are a multitude of physical ailments that occur from chronic pains to fatigue and exhaustion.

To escape the mental pain, many will turn to other forms of pleasure.  In addition to addiction, some become overtly sexual to find value, while others may turn to self mutilation.   These cries for help are attempts to express pain that cannot be visualized or seen.   In other cases, this type of behavior looks to cover mental pain with physical pain.

Ironically, it can paradoxically relieve pain and help individuals become addicted to self harm.  Others remark it helps them feel alive or makes them feel empowered and in control.  Others reiterate it can be used to make themselves less attractive to prevent further abuse or imitate what was seen or experienced.

Unfortunately, without guidance and help, these symptoms and unhealthy coping mechanisms will continue with individuals with PTSD unless helped.  They need to face the trauma and understand it.  Guidance is required to help process the horrible memory to the long term processing centers of the brain.

If you would like to learn more about AIHCP’s Stress Management Certification, then please review and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Stress Management.  AIHCP also offers programs in Crisis Intervention as well.  Remember, that even if certified, one still need to be a licensed professional in the mental health fields to work with individuals suffering from PTSD.

Related Text

The Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook: A Guide to Healing, Recovery and Growth by Glenn R Schiraldi, Ph.D

 

 

Crisis Intervention Counseling AIHCP Video

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Helping individuals in extreme numbing trauma and restoring them to a pre crisis state of mind is important.  Individuals who suffer catastrophic loss can find themselves in a dark chaos.  In other areas, those who are in suicidal ideation may need crisis intervention to help them find hope.  Crisis Intervention is key in helping individuals overcome extreme despair.  Crisis Intervention Counselors work as licensed counselors or also in crisis centers, or even as first responders.

Please review AIHCP’s video on Crisis Intervention Counseling

Crisis Intervention Program Article on Suicide Prevention

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

A failed suicide attempt is a second chance at life.  Finding the help one needs to prevent a second attempt is critical.  Counselors, Crisis advisors and pastoral care givers can help give the guidance needed to these individuals.  Family support can also play a key role in preventing a second attempt.  It is important for those without a support system to call for help.  The article below has some resources which can help.

No matter the crisis, suicide is not the answer. Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Program and see if it meets your professional goals

 

The article, “How to Get Help After Attempting Suicide, From Someone Who’s Been There” by Kimberly Zapata looks closer at how to help those who have attempted suicide not try it a second time.  She states,

“An estimated 1.38 million people attempt and survive suicide each year, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Surviving an attempt, however, certainly doesn’t mean the struggle is over. What happens in the hours, days, and weeks that follow is crucial. Suicide attempt survivors need love, empathy, compassion, care, and support. And yet it can be tough for them to find that support. While there are countless resources available for suicide loss survivors, a quick internet search for help for suicide attempt survivors yields few results.”

To read the entire article, please click here

It is critically important to also help those who suffer from attempted suicide.  It is important to help them and give them the knowledge and support they need to prevent a second attempt.

Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as a Crisis Intervention Specialists.  Crisis Intervention Specialists are pivotal in helping individuals in crisis moments find peace and reason despite the insanity surrounding them.  Some counselors are certified in this field, but the certification is also open to others who are not licensed counselors but work in crisis centers, as well as EMT and those on scene of traumatic events.

 

Crisis Counseling Intervention Certification Article on Crisis Training and Police

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Mental health crisis requires a special brand of response from the state.  Using law enforcement when violence is not an issue can quickly escalate the situation.  In the news, the United States sees many unneeded deaths and escalated situations due to poor training by the police in crisis intervention.

Crisis intervention is key in policing. Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Counseling Certification

 

The article, “What’s Next: Improving Mental Health Crisis Response” by Nicole Merlene looks into how law enforcement can become better trained to face these unique situations.  The article states,

“There is limited co-response with both a clinician and responding police officer. While it is impressive that ¾ of Arlington’s police force is “Crisis Intervention Trained” (CIT), police acknowledged during this process that their presence with flashing lights and uniforms immediately escalates a crisis situation even with the best trained officers.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Counseling Certification and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Crisis Counseling.

 

Crisis Intervention Program Article on Mental Crisis Response Teams

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

With numerous clashes with police and individuals with mental illness, society is calling for great accountability from law enforcement in how the mentally ill are handled during arrests.  A few options include better psychological training for officers as well as crisis intervention courses.  Another option is also including certain calls to be answered by trained staff in social work or other mental illness training.

Better mental crisis training is important for first responders and police. Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Program

 

The article, “Here’s What Happens When Social Workers, Not Police, Respond To Mental Health Crises” by Christina Jedra looks at the importance of evolving how law enforcement deals with mental health crisis calls.  She states,

“A growing number of American cities are embracing another way: sending mental health first responders instead of police.  The teams are made up of unarmed crisis workers, such as social workers and health care personnel, who advocates say are better equipped than police to handle cases that don’t involve violence or crime. ”

To read the entire article, please click here

With many unneeded deaths, a more balanced response is needed from law enforcement when dealing with mental crisis calls.  Better training in Crisis Intervention and mental illness are a start but special responders may also be needed for non violent calls to prevent escalation and possible death of others.

Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Crisis Intervention Counsleing.

 

Crisis Intervention Counseling Program Article on Discussing the Threat of Suicide

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Suicide is a serious issue.  When someone shows signs or reaches out for help regarding suicidal thoughts, it is important that the first person who discovers is able to say the right things and do the right things.  An individual with suicidal thoughts may have serious plans or it may be a fleeting thought but one cannot take the chance until a thorough discussion has occurred.  There are certain signs and also certain things that need to be said during this conversation to ensure the safety of the person considering or speaking of suicide.

A suicidal cry for help should never be overlooked. Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Counseling Program

 

The article, “How To Help Someone At Risk Of Suicide” by Rhitu Chatterjee discusses how to help individuals facing suicidal thought.  She states,

“The pandemic has taken a heavy emotional toll on many people, and if you know someone struggling with despair, depression or thoughts of suicide, you may be wondering how to help.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Suicide is a serious claim by anyone and to turn a blind eye to it is a serious error.  Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Counseling Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to those looking for a four year certification in Crisis Intervention.

Crisis Intervention Training Program Article on Crisis Training and Police Response

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Too many times when mental crisis arises, law enforcement arrives.  911 cannot differentiate between crime and mental crisis.  Many times, mental crisis leads to someone killed by the police.  These alarming trends are part of the police reform.  Crisis teams accompanying police and even better crisis training and protocol for crisis 911 calls should be employed to avoid unnecessary death.

Better training and crisis team partnerships can make sure mental situations end in arrest and not lethal force. Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Training

 

The article, “When 911 Is The Only Option For A Mental Health Care Crisis” by Lisa Ryan looks at the fear and danger associated with a call to the police for a mental emergency within African American communities.  She states,

“Family members of people going through a mental health crisis are sometimes reluctant to call the police out of fear for their loved ones. Violent behavior and outbursts can be met with lethal force.   Mental health advocates are hopeful though that a new co-responder program – that pairs responding Cleveland police officers with social workers — may help.”

To review the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Training Program to learn more about how to help individuals in crisis.  With better crisis training, police and first responders can make a difference in avoiding unneeded lethal force.

Crisis Intervention Program Article on Police and Crisis Situations

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Many non violent situations can get out of hand when police arrive.  Crisis situations that may need professional guidance usually are greeted first by the police instead.  This can lead to escalation and in the case of today’s current environment, a call for reform. One reform that has been reviewed is utilizing crisis professionals to deal with non violent calls.

First responders need more crisis counseling training when dealing with non violent calls. Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Counseling Program

 

The article, “People in behavioral crisis often see police first The first line of response for someone undergoing a mental health crisis is public safety” by Joe Gamm looks at the reality that police are usually the first response to crisis.  He states, 

“Missouri has become a leader in efforts to equip law enforcement agencies to respond to someone undergoing a crisis. In 2013 and 2014, then-Gov. Jay Nixon created a strategic Strengthening Mental Health Initiative to help communities identify and care for Missourians with mental illness. Efforts of the initiative began to connect Community Health Centers with local law enforcement agencies through use of mental health liaisons — mental health professionals who work directly with law enforcement to provide services when needed. The initiative also emphasized the need to provide training so the agencies could create their own regional CIT.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Training officers for crisis intervention and helping them be able to de-escalate  non violent situations is critical for future police reforms.  Certain calls need different approaches.  They need different equipment and different training.  This can reduce deaths of citizens in behavioral crisis at the hands of the police.

Please also review AIHCP’s Crisis Intervention Program and see if it meets your goals and standards.

Crisis Intervention Specialist Program Article on Mindfulness-Based Crisis Intervention

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Mindfulness interventions for patients who deal with mental issues or trauma can help individuals and their overall outcome and mental healing.  Mindfulness Crisis Intervention help individuals find healing but also reduce the risks and costs associated with re admissions for healthcare facilities.  It is important to continue to improve on mental health for everyone.  Mindfulness, meditation and various professional interventions can help mental crisis.

The article, “Mindfulness Interventions May Improve Psychosis Outcomes” by Jessica Janze looks closer at how interventions can help individuals overcome mental crisis and reduce  re admissions.  She states,

“A new study, published in BMC Psychiatry, examines the feasibility and acceptability of a Mindfulness-Based Crisis Intervention (MBCI) for patients experiencing psychosis in the inpatient setting. Results of the parallel-group, randomized control trial (RCT), led by Pamela Jacobson from King’s College London, suggest that mindfulness-based interventions delivered during inpatient hospitalizations may reduce short-term readmissions, a key indicator of quality in mental health care.”

These studies show the usefulness of Mindful-Based Crisis Intervention.  To read the entire article, please click here

Mindfulness Crisis Intervention can help individuals overcome mental crisis. Please also review our Crisis Intervention Specialist Program

 

Please also review our Crisis Intervention Specialist Certification Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.

 

Crisis Counseling Article on Substance Abuse and Crisis in

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Crisis and tension can cause stress.  At the national level when pandemics or crisis strikes, many individuals are forced into solitude and quarantine.   This move to save the many however is not always the best for the few.  Those who suffer from depression, anxiety or substance abuse can face greater challenges in seclusion.

 

During crisis, it is important to help others not fall back into bad habits and addiction Crisis Counseling and Substance Abuse Counseling can help others cope.

 

Addiction has more power over individuals who cannot find their support systems.  Without support, many are not strong enough yet to overcome and curb the desires and physical urges to the addiction.  This addiction can be anything.  It can be a substance, or even a need.  Solitude forces one to wrestle with oneself and inner demons.  If one adds the external crisis of a pandemic or national crisis to an internal struggle, then many without support relapse into bad habits.

Many need the distraction from the external or social issue and find peace in old unhealthy habits.  Without better coping strategies, one can fall victim to these desires and needs.  Many of the coping strategies were in the external world and many find a hard time finding alternative coping strategies at home alone.

This is why it is important to find coping strategies at home.  Hobbies are a great place for many.  Reading, work at home as well, while others look to meditation and prayer, but ultimately, many need that support.  Fortunately with social media, it is easier to stay into contact.  Zoom meetings, chat rooms, and online support groups are available.  Furthermore, many counseling sessions now can be completed over the phone.

These social platforms help those addicted hear the outside world while trapped at home.  It is critical to help individuals who face these issues and share the ray of hope they need.  Many do not have hobbies, or other ways to distract their minds and social media and telecounseling may be the only way they can find the guidance and support they need.

Crisis itself is stressful enough for many people facing pandemics, but it is even more difficult for those who are already waging a war internally with themselves.

To learn more about Substance Abuse Counseling and Crisis Counseling, qualified professionals can review the programs at AIHCP.  The programs are designed for working professionals and are completely online.  Qualified professionals can earn a four year certification by completing the required online courses in Crisis Intervention or Substance Abuse Counseling.

In the meantime, helping those who need social support is a key element in the behavioral health sectors. Individuals whether depressed or addicted, need the help to cope and not only defeat the external crisis but also their own inner issues.

Please also review our Crisis Intervention program to help others cope during national crisis.

 

Crisis Intervention is a key skill set by counselors to help individuals face stress and national and personal emergencies.  Crisis counselors help individuals return to a pre-crisis level.  Helping individuals find sanity in chaos and able to cope is a key element in crisis.  Crisis counselors help not only external issues but also internal crisis and hence crisis counseling is closely related also with substance abuse counseling.