Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD)

Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) is a structured, facilitated process designed to help individuals who have experienced or witnessed traumatic events, such as accidents or violence. It typically occurs shortly after the incident and encourages participants to share their feelings and reactions in a supported environment. The goal is to reduce stress, prevent long-term psychological issues like post-traumatic stress disorder, and promote emotional recovery. CISD involves a series of guided discussions led by trained professionals, helping individuals process the event, normalize their responses, and develop coping strategies.