A Family in Crisis

A FAMILY IN

CRISIS

Katie J. Del Rio

CJ440: Crisis Intervention

Professor Jesse Thornton

August 2, 2015

At some point in our lives we will come across a family member who is dealing with a crisis situation. There could be many factors that lead up to that point for the person. We as humans offer sympathy, and then we begin to reflect on our own lives. There are little things that we do to help that family member we may use words and let them know it will be okay or we may drop them off food or help watch younger children if it is needed. These gestures that we make do make an impact and difference on the lives of the ones in crisis. It lets them know that you are there for them and that you are willing to understand the events of this occurrence. Crisis is a danger because it can overwhelm the individual to the extent that serious pathology, including homicide and suicide may result. Crisis is also an opportunity because the pain it induces impels the person to seek help (Aguilera & Messick, 1982, p. 1).

When dealing with a family member in crisis it is also very important to make sure they are not showing signs of traumatic behavior change. It is important to make sure that the family member is taking care of themselves too. They need to keep up their hygiene, they need sleep, it’s important they eat and it’s also important to make sure they do not have huge mood changes.

As a family member be supportive and do not judge them. It is important to try to make the conversations casual that they do not feel you are trying to take over the situation. Show that family member that you can listen and that you’re willing to listen. For them it is a sign of trust and that is important in any relationship. People can react in any one of the three ways of crisis. Under ideal circumstances, many individuals can cope effectively with crisis by themselves and develop strength from the experience. They change and grow in a positive manner and...