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The first part of Crisis Intervention helped to define what a crisis is and the impact of the ministry of presence has with one in crisis. In part 2 I will be talking about bringing peace and spiritual health to the one in crisis.
“The Chaplain is often the one who provides information about how to accomplish a task, what the possible options are, who the potential resources are or where help is available.”
Do you as a Chaplain have the answers to how, what, who or where for someone in crisis? If that man on the bench with his head in his hands communicates that his wife is divorcing him and he needs counseling will you be ready to give him the information he needs for professional help? What about the woman on the corner that needs a place to stay that is safe from her abusive boyfriend? Chaplains can build bridges and network resources for those in crisis.
Chaplains typically aren’t medical professionals that can give medical assessments or discuss medical issues, however, Chaplains should have enough expertise to “recognize the difference between feeling “sad” and being clinically depressed.” If you are a Chaplain and lack the expertise to determine the difference reach out to your local non-profits, colleges, and co-ops for classes. Many public service classes are free and will provide you with clear instruction that will guide you to determine the difference. At the very least educate yourself with books and research to arm yourself with the knowledge to help those in crisis. The next step to provide peace to those in crisis is giving information, direction and contact information for help.
A cell phone is a great tool for a chaplain to store huge amounts of contact information for local and regional help in almost any area of crisis.
“If knowledge is power, the chaplain empowers people to a healthier life by providing information.”
Take a few minutes after reading this article and research organizations and non-profits that help with:
- stress management
- conflict resolution
- money management
- premarital counseling
- divorce recovery
- cultural diversity
- grief and mourning counseling
- pregnancy help
- addiction services
- physical and mental abuse
- clothing and food banks
- homeless shelters
An intervention plan is having yourself armed and ready with the right information to give as well as prayer, support, guidance, and love. Providing information by giving them a bridge to help, yields control for that one who is experiencing the out of control.
I love the BRIDGEBUILDER concept of chaplaincy. It seems a chaplain must wear many hats. I had not considered this depth and breadth of information required to assist others in this way. Those who choose this path are truly giving much of themselves… much social worker and counseling emphasized here. The world will benefit from more of this kind of sharing from the informed heart.