Card · US Letter
How to support someone in crisis: 5 principles
A reminder card with the principles of psychological first aid.
Based on the article: How to support someone in crisis: five principles of psychological first aid
How to support someone in crisis: 5 principles
Safety, calm, self-efficacy, connection, hope
- SAFETY: help them get to a safe place
- CALM: speak calmly; offer water; breathe slowly together
- SELF-EFFICACY: help with specific tasks, but do not take over
- CONNECTION: help them reach family and friends
- HOPE: reactions after trauma are normal, and it gets easier with time
- Say: "I’m here," "I’m so sorry," "How can I help?"
- Avoid: "Stay strong," "It could be worse"
- It is OK to ask directly about suicidal thoughts
- If there is risk, do not leave them alone; call or text 988, or 911