Having experiences of crisis comes to most people at some point in their lives. One definition of crisis describes it as a time of intense difficulty, trouble, or danger. These times may come as isolated events, in cycled experiences, or as longer sustained experiences.
One potential experience of cycled crisis is what may be experienced during instances of family violence. November is Family Violence Prevention Month, which further highlights the importance of having conversations and being aware of the crises that family violence can create in peoples’ lives. Additionally, November brings focus to sustained experiences of crisis, such as for those who have endured wars and battles throughout history and in current times. With Remembrance Day, we remember those who have historically or who continue to experience crisis on a daily basis as needed to bravely serve our country.
When a crisis is experienced, each person may respond in a different and unique way, which largely depends on their personality, support systems, and coping skills. Crisis can lead to a variety of potential emotional responses, such as, fear, anger, anxiety, and helplessness. It can also put into action the natural “fight-or-flight” response. If experienced for an extended period, the sustained impact of living in “fight-or-flight” or “crisis mode” may affect our mental health and how we cope on a daily basis.
Crisis can change our lives, our trust, our security, and often, our world assumptions are challenged. We may question whether what we are experiencing is “normal.” We might grieve due to experiencing a loss of normalcy, relationships, safety, and security.
Though it may be difficult to find, there is hope that can be found through crisis. We can reach out and seek support to help us develop strong coping skills and build resilience. Below are a few ideas of skills in resilience that can be helpful to learn during times of crisis:
· Learning about perceptiveness: You understand people and situations and are able to question what is happening in your family or community.
· Practicing service: You give of yourself to others, which can support you in finding hope.
· Seeking independence as needed: You can separate yourself from perspectives or other people who may not be helpful to you to become more confident in making your way through the crisis.
· Discovering optimism: You find hope for a bright future for yourself and the world.
· Finding connection: You can seek out support from others and form caring and positive relationships.
· Building self motivation: You have the drive to fulfill your dreams and goals.
· Practicing creativity: You can express your experiences in a constructive and helpful way.
· Exploring spirituality: You have faith in someone greater than yourself.
· Finding your sense of humor: You can see the funny side of the world and your circumstances, and use this ability to put things into perspective.
(List modified from Alberta Mental Health Teacher Education Series on Resiliency and Resilience)
To learn these skills, we can seek out counsellors, health professionals, support groups, or support persons in our communities. We do not have to feel alone in our experiences of crisis.
Submitted by Walking Through Grief Society
Supported by FCSS –City of Lloydminster, Towns of Vermilion and Wainwright, Villages of Kitscoty and Marwayne , County of Vermilion River and personal donations.
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