Psychology Crisis Intervention

Study Notes

Crises can be precipitated by unexpected external stresses
Types of crisis: maturational/developmental crises (emotions related to unresolved conflicts in one's life)

Aims: relieve present distress, restore previous functional level, develop new attitudes and behavior
Stages:
- Stage 1: Psychosocial assessment
- Stage 2: Rapidly establish rapport
- Stage 3: Identify major problems
- Stage 4: Deal with feelings and emotions
- Stage 5: Generate and explore alternatives
- Stage 6: Implement an action plan

Definition: maladaptive pattern of substance use with recurrent adverse consequences
Causes: emotional pressure, social pressure, group pressure, previous drug use, media influence
Warning signs:
- Physical signs: change in eating habits, sleep pattern, red eye, running nose, cough
- Behavioral signs: change in friends, irritability, nervousness, over-excitement
- Social signs: social problems, economic problems, legal risks
Classification: alcohol, sedatives, cocaine, hallucinogens, inhalants

Assessment: type and action of drug used, pattern of dependence, physical condition
Planning/Implementation: develop trusting nurse-client relationship, maintain non-judgmental attitude, encourage group activities, assist through detoxification phase, observe and care for physical problems, establish rehabilitation program

Definition: feeling of emotional or physical tension from events or thoughts that make one feel frustrated, angry, or nervous
Causes: pressure, big changes, worry, lack of control, lack of work or activities
Sources: personal, friends and family, employment and study, housing

Psychological adaptation: functional, cognitive, or behavioral trait that benefits an organism in its environment
Factors influencing individual adaptation: duration and type of stress, external supports, knowledge, personality traits, maturity, general health

Causative factors: sex and age, socio-cultural factors, genetic factors, stress, parents and families

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): chronic disorder with difficulties in attention span, impulse control, and hyperactivity
Conduct disorder: repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior violating the basic rights of others
Anxiety disorder: fear that is not justified by reality or extreme reaction to real threat
Autistic disorder: rare pervasive developmental disorder with onset in infancy or childhood, characterized by lack of responsiveness, withdrawal from social contact, and gross impairment in communication