10 Tips for Verbal Crisis De-Escalation and Intervention | Communication Skills Improvement
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The content segments provide valuable insights and practical tips for effectively de-escalating verbal crises. Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes explains that crisis represents both danger and opportunity. When someone is in crisis, they feel threatened and unable to think clearly, which can be dangerous. However, crisis also presents an opportunity for the person to figure out their next steps. The first tip for de-escalation is to help the person calm down and get into their wise mind, where they can think clearly and make better decisions. The second tip is to work with the person in their wise mind to figure out the best way to improve the situation and where they want to go from there.
People in crisis feel unsafe and powerless, and they may display their crisis differently, such as through withdrawal, emotional outbursts, or substance abuse. It's important to recognize that what may seem benign to us can be triggering for someone in crisis. Additionally, the person responding to the crisis may also be triggered, making it harder for the person in crisis to trust and feel safe.
Approaching someone in crisis requires getting centered and grounded first. Avoid touching the person, as it may trigger aggression. Instead, try to get their attention without physical contact. Observe their emotions and acknowledge what they are feeling with genuine compassion and empathy. Avoid telling them to calm down and instead validate their feelings. Consider the environment and the presence of bystanders, as having an audience can make de-escalation more challenging. Creating a safe space and suggesting a walk can help calm the person down.
Overall, the key is to approach the person with compassion, validate their feelings, and create a safe and supportive environment to de-escalate the crisis. It is important to respect their boundaries, not touch them without permission, and be aware of personal triggers and emotions during and after the crisis situation.
The content segments provide valuable insights and practical tips for effectively de-escalating verb