7 Steps Of Critical Incident Stress Debriefing And How They Support Trauma & Stress Recovery - International Coalition for Genital Integrity (2024)

Introduction

Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) is a supportive intervention designed to help individuals deal with the emotional aftermath of traumatic events. It is a structured, time-limited, group-based intervention that allows individuals to share their experiences and emotions with others who have gone through similar events.

CISD was originally developed to help emergency service workers deal with the psychological effects of their work, but it has since been applied to a wide range of traumatic events, including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and violent crime.

In this article, we will discuss the 7 steps of CISD and how they support trauma and stress recovery. We will also address frequently asked questions related to this intervention.

The 7 Steps of Critical Incident Stress Debriefing

Step 1: Introduction
The first step of CISD is to introduce the participants to the process. The facilitator explains the goals and expectations of the intervention and provides an overview of the remaining steps. This step also sets the tone for the rest of the debriefing by creating a safe and supportive environment.

Step 2: Fact Phase
In the fact phase, participants are encouraged to share their experiences of the traumatic event. The facilitator asks specific questions to gather as much factual information as possible. This step helps to establish a common understanding of the event and allows participants to share their perspectives.

Step 3: Thought Phase
In this step, participants are asked to share their thoughts and feelings about the event. The facilitator encourages them to express their emotions, fears, and concerns in a non-judgmental environment. This step helps to normalize the participants’ responses and provides validation for their feelings.

Step 4: Reaction Phase
The reaction phase focuses on the physical and behavioral reactions that participants experienced during and after the event. The facilitator provides explanations for these reactions and helps participants understand that they are normal responses to abnormal situations.

Step 5: Symptom Phase
In the symptom phase, participants are asked to identify any physical or emotional symptoms they are experiencing as a result of the event. The facilitator helps participants understand that these symptoms are a normal response to trauma and provides strategies for coping with them.

Step 6: Teaching Phase
In the teaching phase, the facilitator provides information and education on coping strategies and resilience-building techniques. Topics may include stress management, relaxation techniques, and self-care behaviors. The goal of this phase is to provide participants with tools to help them cope with the aftermath of the event.

Step 7:Re-Entry Phase
The re-entry phase focuses on the participants’ return to normal activities and their lives. The facilitator helps participants develop a plan for returning to work or other activities and provides support for any challenges they may encounter during this process.

FAQs

What Are The Benefits of Critical Incident Stress Debriefing?

There are several benefits to participating in CISD. First, it provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and emotions. This can help to reduce feelings of isolation and provide validation for their responses to traumatic events.

Secondly, CISD provides education and information on coping strategies and resilience-building techniques to help individuals manage their responses to trauma. This can improve their ability to cope with future events and reduce the risk of developing longer-term mental health problems.

Finally, CISD has been shown to reduce the incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health problems. Studies have found that individuals who participate in CISD are less likely to develop PTSD than those who do not receive any intervention.

Who Can Benefit From Critical Incident Stress Debriefing?

CISD can benefit anyone who has experienced a traumatic event, regardless of their role or profession. This includes first responders, healthcare workers, military personnel, and civilians who have been exposed to violence or disasters.

CISD is especially important for individuals who are at high risk of developing PTSD or other mental health problems due to exposure to trauma. This includes individuals who have experienced multiple traumatic events or have a history of mental health problems.

Is Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Effective?

Studies have shown that CISD can be effective in reducing the incidence of PTSD and other mental health problems. However, there is some debate over its effectiveness, and some studies have found that it may not be effective for all individuals or in all situations.

One of the criticisms of CISD is that it may not be appropriate for individuals who are not yet ready to discuss their experiences or who have not yet processed their emotions. In some cases, early intervention may actually be harmful and could interfere with the natural healing process.

What Are The Potential Risks of Critical Incident Stress Debriefing?

While CISD is generally considered safe, there are some potential risks associated with the intervention. One of these risks is that it may trigger an emotional reaction in some individuals, which could lead to further distress or re-traumatization.

It is also possible that CISD could reinforce negative beliefs or emotions that individuals have about the traumatic event. For example, if participants feel that their reactions to the event were abnormal or weak, CISD could reinforce these beliefs and lead to further distress.

How Is Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Different From Therapy?

CISD is a time-limited intervention that is designed to address the immediate emotional aftermath of a traumatic event. It is not intended to be a substitute for therapy, which is a longer-term and more comprehensive treatment for mental health problems.

While CISD may involve some therapeutic techniques, its primary goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and emotions. Therapy, on the other hand, is focused on addressing underlying mental health problems and developing strategies for long-term recovery.

What Happens If Someone Refuses To Participate In Critical Incident Stress Debriefing?

Participation in CISD is voluntary, and individuals cannot be forced to participate if they do not wish to do so. However, it is important to provide individuals with information about the intervention and encourage them to participate if they are at high risk of developing mental health problems.

If someone refuses to participate in CISD, they may be provided with other resources and support services, such as individual counseling or peer support groups. It is important to respect the individual’s autonomy and provide them with choices about their care.

When Should Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Be Used?

CISD should be used as soon as possible after a traumatic event has occurred. Early intervention can help individuals process their emotions and reduce the risk of developing longer-term mental health problems.

CISD may not be appropriate for all individuals or situations. In some cases, early intervention may be harmful, and individuals may need more time to process their emotions before participating in CISD.

How Long Does Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Last?

CISD is a time-limited intervention that typically lasts between 2-4 hours. However, the length of the intervention may vary depending on the severity of the traumatic event and the needs of the participants.

In some cases, individuals may require additional support or follow-up sessions after the initial CISD intervention. This may include individual counseling or referral to other support services.

What Is The Role of The Facilitator In Critical Incident Stress Debriefing?

The facilitator plays a critical role in CISD. Their primary goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and emotions.

The facilitator is responsible for guiding the participants through the 7 steps of CISD and providing education and information on coping strategies and resilience-building techniques. They must also be able to recognize when individuals are in distress and provide appropriate referrals for further support.

Who Can Facilitate Critical Incident Stress Debriefing?

CISD should be facilitated by individuals who have received specialized training in this intervention. This may include mental health professionals, first responders, or other professionals who have experience in trauma counseling.

Facilitators should have a strong understanding of trauma reactions and be skilled in creating a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and emotions.

What Happens After Critical Incident Stress Debriefing?

After CISD, participants may be provided with additional support or follow-up sessions, depending on their needs. This may include individual counseling, referral to support groups, or other support services.

It is also important to continue monitoring participants for any signs of distress or mental health problems. Early intervention is important in reducing the risk of developing longer-term mental health problems.

Is Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Covered By Insurance?

Whether CISD is covered by insurance will depend on your specific insurance plan and the reason for seeking intervention. In some cases, CISD may be covered as a part of group therapy or counseling services.

It is important to check with your insurance provider to determine what interventions are covered and what out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for.

Do I Need To Prepare For Critical Incident Stress Debriefing?

There is no specific preparation required for CISD. However, it is important to be open and honest during the intervention and to share your experiences and emotions with others.

It may also be helpful to speak with the facilitator beforehand and ask any questions you may have about the intervention. This can help you better understand the process and what to expect during the intervention.

Can Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Be Conducted Remotely?

CISD can be conducted remotely using video conferencing or other technology. However, it is important to ensure that all participants have access to the necessary technology and that the environment is quiet and private.

Remote interventions may be less effective than in-person interventions, as it may be more difficult to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and emotions.

What Are Some Alternative Interventions To Critical Incident Stress Debriefing?

There are several alternative interventions to CISD, including individual counseling, group therapy, peer support groups, and mindfulness-based interventions.

The choice of intervention will depend on the individual’s needs and preferences, as well as the severity of the traumatic event and the presence of any mental health problems.

Conclusion

Critical Incident Stress Debriefing is a valuable intervention for individuals who have experienced traumatic events. By providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and emotions, CISD can help to reduce feelings of isolation, provide validation for their responses, and reduce the risk of developing long-term mental health problems.

While CISD may not be appropriate for all individuals or situations, it is an important tool in the mental health toolkit for those who have experienced trauma. By understanding the 7 steps of CISD and the frequently asked questions related to this intervention, individuals can make informed decisions about their care and receive the support they need to recover from traumatic events.