Shock: How to Help Someone in Crisis
Shock: How to Help Someone in Crisis
Accidents, fires, explosions, or devastating news can happen to anyone at any time, leading to shock. If you find yourself nearby, you can provide assistance. You don’t need to be a psychologist; just follow the guidelines developed by Israeli psychologists and shared by Ukrainian psychologists Anna Shavliuk and Ekaterina Miuliutina.
Steps to Help Someone in Shock
Establish Contact
Stand in front of the person and ask, “Can you see me? Nod if you can.”
Introduce Yourself
Say, “My name is… I’m here to help you.” If you’re a psychologist or psychiatrist, avoid mentioning it as it might trigger an unwanted reaction. If you’re a medical professional, you can disclose that.
Restore Identity
Ask, “What’s your name?”
Reconnect Events
Help them piece together what happened. Ask, “Where were you going? What were you doing when…?” (mention the specific event, like an explosion or car accident).
Reinforce Memories
Repeat their answers clearly and concisely. Add details if you know the situation, but keep it emotion-free and brief.
Engage Thinking
Give them a simple task, such as looking at a house number or counting people around. Even seemingly silly tasks can help: “Help me find out the number of that house.”
Normalize Reactions
Assure them, “All the reactions you’re feeling are normal. These are normal reactions to an abnormal situation.”
Provide Tactile Sensations
If the person is in a stupor, try gently moving your hands to guide them. Give them something tactile to hold, like snow or a cold object.
Restore Control
Offer water or tissues, but let them take it themselves. Say, “Here’s some water,” and let them decide to drink.
Remind Them of Past Coping Mechanisms
Ask, “Have you experienced stressful situations before? How did you cope?” Help them remember past strategies. If they mention unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol or drugs, gently steer them towards healthier options like eating or smoking if that helps them.
Important Reminders
- Avoid Discussing Feelings: Shock is not the time to delve into emotions. This can be addressed later, not with you.
- Ensure Safety: Protect both yourself and the person from external threats. If the person becomes aggressive, seek help from someone else.
- Stay Calm and Steady: Speak clearly, slowly, and with pauses. Use short sentences and avoid unnecessary gestures. Be soft yet directive; you are their support now.
- Maintain Your Stability: Keep your feet grounded, spine aligned, and breathe evenly. Your stability is crucial.
- Avoid Arguments: The person might say things that don’t align with your views. Avoid arguments and stick to the steps.
- Don’t Urge Calmness: Avoid telling them to “calm down and stop.” This can worsen their condition or lead to post-traumatic stress.
