How to Deal With a Crisis in Your Family
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, a family crisis usually lasts no more than six weeks, and it has five phases: the crisis trigger, the family seeing the crisis as a threat, the disorganized family response, the search for a solution and the adoption of new coping strategies. It's typical to have difficulty thinking and communicating clearly in the initial stages. Family members may try to numb themselves with mindless activity like watching TV, or with drugs or alcohol. Hostility, low self-esteem and impulsive behaviors may also arise. You need to recognize that dealing with a crisis can offer an opportunity for positive changes.
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Instructions
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Recognize the loss or hardship, allow yourself to grieve for it, and encourage your family members to do the same. It's okay to feel upset, sad or angry, and the more you allow yourselves to experience these feelings openly and honestly, the faster you can process them and move on. A professional family counselor can facilitate this process.
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Accept your circumstances. The sooner you accept what has happened, the sooner you can take steps to deal with it and move forward. Staying focused on the injustice of the situation and wondering how it could have happened will keep you stuck.
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Develop a network of support. It can be tempting to hide, especially if the crisis is one you feel ashamed of. Reach out for support from extended family, friends, community members or support groups where you can help others too. Realize that everyone goes through hard times and that a lot of people will happily offer compassion without any judgment.
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Talk openly with your family and encourage daily practices such as sharing gratitude and appreciation for each other and anything else that comes to mind. Express affection and praise, finding positive things to share.
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Maintain or initiate healthy lifestyle habits for the whole family. A crisis often acts as a trigger for unhealthy behaviors with food, drugs and alcohol, poor sleep habits and a lack of exercise and fresh air. Keeping up your physical health boosts your self-esteem and helps you handle emotional challenges better.
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Take control over circumstances within your reach. Empower yourself by being in control of your life as much as you can. This does not mean you need to do everything on your own. Taking control might include asking for professional help, enrolling in a support program or getting a loan to rebuild your home or business.
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Notice when your children need extra attention and support. They may be acting out at school, withdrawing or having trouble sleeping. Encourage them to talk to you, a counselor or a family friend. Play soothing music and explore relaxation techniques with your kids such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing.
Make sure to have fun with the whole family too. Engage in physical activities together such as going skating or swimming, or play board games at home. Teach your children that a crisis does not mean the end of the world, and that it's still okay to have fun and enjoy each other's company.
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References
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