Critical Incident Stress Debriefs are one part of the Critical Incident Stress Management process. Critical Incident Stress Debriefs work best when combined with a larger crisis support network such as follow-up services, outreach programs, professional care and referrals. The comprehensive range of the Critical Incident Stress Management program are designed to aid the emergency personnel in managing their traumatic and cumulative stress reaction, prevent traumatic stress, mitigate traumatic stress, intervene to assist in the worker’s recovery from traumatic stress and restore the worker’s ability to function to maintain optimal health.

Critical Incident Stress Debriefs are designed to be small group “psychological first aid.” They focus, emphasize and empower coworkers after experiencing a critical overwhelming incident. The Critical Incident Stress Debrief attempts to enhance resistance to stress reactions, build resiliency. It is not designed to replace mental health treatments.

The following topics will be covered in this one-day Critical Incident Stress Debriefs program:

What is considered a critical incident event

What Debriefs are designed to do

Review key terms and concepts

Understanding different types of crises

Understanding the relationship between crisis and stress

Goals of crisis intervention

Principles of crisis intervention

Critical incident stress debriefing

Introduction to the 7-step model of Critical Incident Stress Debriefs

Psychological and behavioural reactions to critical stressors

Goals of Critical Incident Stress Debriefs

Planning a Critical Incident Stress Debriefs CISD

Critical Incident Stress Debriefs – Considerations, Ground rules and follow-up