The word “trauma” is thrown around frequently these days. But what is trauma, exactly? How can we interact well with those who have experienced it? Join Micah, Christa, and our special guest Lillian Dehn as we discuss how to how to better love those who are hurting and how to defuse sticky situations.
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De-Escalation Techniques
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⬇️ Speak slowly and lower the pitch of your voice.
⬇️ Take deep breaths. The distressed person will often mirror this action.
⬇️ Move slowly. Sudden movements can make the distressed person more anxious.
⬇️ It can be helpful to raise your hands with palms out as a sign of openness. You can bring them around your face to draw the distressed person’s attention to your face (or to protect yourself if needed).
⬇️ Refrain from yelling, even if the distressed person is doing so.
⬇️ Ask the distressed person questions like: How can I help you? What would make this better? What would make you feel safe?
⬇️ Offer the person something to drink (water or non-caffeinated drinks are best). This can reset the person’s fight/flight response if they feel it is safe to swallow and digest.
⬇️ Don’t touch the distressed person. They may think you are trying to control or harm them.
⬇️ Use tools like CUFF. Be Calm, Unaffected, Firm, and Funny (without sarcasm).
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Stuck In The Messy: Channel Credits
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🎙️ HOST:: Micah Harrison, Christa Schaller
🎉 SPECIAL GUESTS:: Lillian Dehn
🎛️ PRODUCER:: Lepard Productions
🎨 CREATIVE DIRECTOR:: Colin McFarland
A Product of Lepard Productions and the Life Center through the Mission Hills Podcast Network in Littleton, CO.
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