What is one of the primary goals of CISM?

The primary goal of Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) is to support emotional recovery from incidents. CISM is designed to assist individuals, particularly emergency responders, in coping with the psychological impact of traumatic events they may experience in the line of duty. The program provides emotional support through debriefings, peer support, and other therapeutic interventions aimed at promoting resilience and preventing long-term psychological issues, such as PTSD.

Supporting emotional recovery is crucial because the exposure to traumatic events can lead to significant mental health issues if not addressed properly. CISM focuses on providing individuals with the tools and strategies needed to process their emotions and experiences in a supportive environment. This proactive approach can help mitigate the mental health effects that often follow critical incidents, enabling responders to continue performing their duties effectively over the long term.