People & Crisis
(Adapted from Brammer, "The Helping Relationship", 1985)

A crisis is often seen as stemming from a sudden, stressful event, which impacts upon people in a manner which severely taxes their ability to cope. This type of event, the situational crisis, is only one of three domains of crisis which confront people. We need to keep in mind there are many individuals who experience crises in their lives which are distinct from stressful events. The application of appropriate and constructive support procedures can cover all domains of crisis.

Situational Crises: These come from extraordinary events which the individual has no way of forecasting or controlling. These events include accidents, disasters, victimisation, job-loss, illness and death. Situational crises are often characterised as random, sudden, shocking, intense, and catastrophic.

Developmental Crises: These come from changes or shifts in the normal flow of human life-span growth. Developmental crises may be caused by events such as the birth of a child, divorce, mid-life career change, or retirement. Although such crises are relatively normal, how people handle them is unique to each individual.

Existential Crises: These arise from the inner conflicts and anxieties which accompany the important issues of purpose, responsibility, independence and commitment. Examples include the mid-life realisation that one might not achieve a career ambition, or an individual evaluating life experiences at age 50 or 60 and coming to a conclusion that his or her life has been unfulfilled or meaningless.

When in a support role, it's important to appreciate the nature of a crisis being presented by the person seeking help, and also be aware of the depth of problems possible when domains of crisis occur simultaneously. The individual can be assisted to resolve some crises with information on resources available and practical support, while in other cases their may be a need for appropriate referral and the application of professional expertise.