Critical incident stress management helps people deal with the natural emotional and physical impact of exposure to a critical incident or an accumulation of smaller incidents. The emotional and physical signs and symptoms of CIS can happen immediately after the event or after a period of time. It is important to monitor and support both yourself and your fellow members over time following a critical incident. Not all people will experience CIS, however it is helpful to have a broad knowledge of what it is, should it happen.
Psychological first aid (PFA) helps people cope with their initial distress in response to a critical incident. It is based on an understanding that people who experience trauma may experience a range of emotional, psychological, behavioural or physical responses, and that some of these responses might interfere with their ability to cope.
PFA is an appropriate approach to use with people who have directly experienced or witnessed trauma, including lifesavers and other emergency response service workers. It includes practical strategies to ensure a calm, compassionate and supportive environment that promotes psychological recovery after trauma. It is not a debrief or counselling and does not seek out details of the traumatic experience. Lifesavers should remember to respond to fellow members and others who have directly experienced or witnessed a traumatic event with compassion and kindness, and provide a calm, caring and supportive environment. This can be achieved by applying the basic action principles of psychological first aid and maintaining appropriate confidentiality.
For more information on PFA, refer to the World Health Organisation or your local governmental health department. Some surf lifesaving clubs also offer peer support programs that SLS members can access for more information and training on PFA.