When should emotional support be offered to a casualty?

Offering emotional support to a casualty immediately, as part of initial care, is crucial for several reasons. First, individuals experiencing trauma or injury may not only suffer from physical ailments but also from emotional distress, anxiety, and shock. Providing emotional support right away helps to create a sense of safety and reassurance, which can be essential for their overall well-being and recovery.

By addressing their emotional needs in the early stages, you can facilitate a more positive response to medical treatment and help them feel more in control. This early intervention can significantly reduce feelings of helplessness and panic, making it easier for them to handle the physical treatment they will receive. Emotional support can include simple actions such as speaking to them in a calm voice, assuring them that help is on the way, and encouraging them to take deep breaths, which can be calming.

In contrast, waiting for the casualty to receive medical treatment, for the situation to calm down, or until they request support can lead to delays in addressing important emotional needs, potentially exacerbating their psychological distress during a critical moment. Immediate emotional support lays the foundation for holistic care, considering both the physical and emotional aspects of trauma.