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Life Challenges--Checklist Topics 3-6

 

  
SPECIFIC SITUATIONS BEHAVIOR/SIGNS TAILORED SUPPORT
3. Special family needs
Expressed concern over the general well-being of the member
Expressed concern over potential financial impact
Exacerbation of distress from other stressors
Expressed concern over lack of personal/ leisure time
Understand the impact the condition has on the family
Learn the specific impact when a  member has a family member who becomes ill
Encourage open communications/dialogue member
Periodically ask  member how the family member is doing
Periodically ask if medical and community support needs are being met
Allow adequate time for medical appointments/other obligations
When possible/appropriate-link the  member with a person with the same experience
Be familiar with community resources for the family
4. Legal problems
Apprehension over legal problem
Expresses concern over financial status
Expresses concern over potential impact on career
Depression
Suicidal behaviors ( especially higher risk for incarcerated members)
Inform members undergoing an investigation early in the day/week
Link with supportive services
Utilize local process for members receiving notification of a pending legal action
When members are released from incarceration or pending trial, monitor distress and risk for suicide
5. Medical problems
Expressed concern over medical problem
Depression
Anxiety
Complaint of physical discomfort
Expressed concern over financial status
Difficulty with relationships
Provide time for appointments
Periodically inquire about the progress of treatments
Offer to provide support as needed
Ensure they are capable of driving after medical appointments
Support duty restrictions (if any) recommended by medical providers
6. Sexual assault
Depression
Anxiety over becoming pregnant/sexually transmitted disease
Victim may fear people do not believe or understand them
Victim may find it difficult to trust others
Victim may be concerned about seeing their assailant again
Victim may have doubts about telling others what happened.  They may have doubts about reporting the crime to police.
Concerns expressed over reaction from family/loved ones
Concerns over potential publicity
Fear of being assaulted again
First, ensure physical safety of the victim
Advise against destroying evidence by bathing or washing clothes prior to going to the medical facility
Assure the victim feels safe--determine if the alleged assailant is still nearby and if the victim needs protection
Assist with or provide transportation for the victim to the hospital for an examination
Support the victim in contacting the police
Allow the victim to exercise as much control over the situation as possible
Listen/engage in quiet support
Help coordinate a personal friend or professional to immediately join the individual
Be available in the weeks and months following the assault.  Be sure that the victim can turn to you for support.
Emphasize to the victim the need for additional support; refer to available counseling groups and other victim services