Getting Through An Emotional Crisis

An emotional crisis can result from a sudden upset: losing your job, being diagnosed with a serious illness, being robbed. It can also result from steady, severe distress or major life transitions. When something happens to throw you into emotional crisis, knowing where to turn can help you get through this difficult period, and deal with and accept your feelings.

When Crisis Strikes

There are many signs of emotional crisis. Victims may have a hard time doing things that should be easy. They might forget things or have trouble focusing. Some will cry or become furious with no warning. Others will have attacks of panic, rapid breathing or heartbeat. They may have nightmares. Some may even feel suicidal.

The Stages Of Crisis

At first, victims may be frozen in fear, especially when the crisis results from a crime such as rape or burglary. Then, they will act as if nothing has happened or as if what happened was not serious. Next, they may be unable to stop thinking about how they might have prevented it. Some people may be stuck in one stage, and will find that the effects of the crisis will hang on and on.

The Goal Of Crisis Therapy

The goal of therapy after a crisis is to start healing and to help the victim move through each stage completely. Crisis therapy is short term, lasting about six sessions. Crisis therapists actively help people solve crisis related problems, using a variety of approaches.

Know Where To Turn

Different kinds of crises require different kinds of emergency help. Use hot lines and community crisis centers for suicide, rape, assault, and burglary. When you're away from home, look under "Traveler's Aide" in the phone book for emergency help in an emotional crisis. (Local hospital emergency rooms are best for physical emergencies.)

Take The Time Now

You never know when a crisis might take place. Take the time now to learn what help is available where you live or where you're going. It can make a big difference at a time when help is critical.

Crisis Healing

Getting Through An Emotional Crisis

When Crisis Strikes

The Stages Of Crisis

The Goal Of Crisis Therapy

Know Where To Turn

Take The Time Now