TABLE 3.

Crisis Resolution Strategy

1. Recognize early warning signs of a crisis: fear, panic, confusion, disorganization, intrusive thoughts, flashbacks/nightmares, self-defeating actions

2. Expect recovery from an acute trauma/crisis within 6 wk; most crises will stabilize or resolve

3. For counselors, normalize that somatic or psychiatric symptoms are common in a crisis, as are disturbances in usual daily routines

4. Discuss problems, symptoms, or dysfunction with family, trusted friends, and other professionals

5. Identify the crisis precipitants (eg, internal/external events) and develop the 6-week timeline

6. Develop the ecological map. List people/organizations in the support system; Who can help?

7. Focus on one main crisis. List the contributing problems. Set the priority and sequence for what needs to change

8. Develop 1 solution per problem

9. Review current coping styles; explore other adaptive coping styles (Table 1)

10. Implement the plan, using new coping styles and use apps, if helpful (Table 2)

11. Follow-up on referrals

12. Assess results. Has problem been resolved? If yes, go to step #1 and tackle new symptom or problem. If no, seek professional help