The Crucial Role of Crisis Intervention for Victims of Discrimination
Brian H. Santa Cruz
Department of Behavioral Health Sciences, Liberty University
CRIS605: Crisis and First Responder Training: Skills and Techniques
Dr. Stephanie Cheek
October 1, 2020
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CRISIS INTERVENTION FOR VICTIMS OF DISCRIMINATION IN THE MILITARY
Abstract
In the realm of the armed forces, where unity and cohesion are paramount, discrimination
can have far-reaching and deeply unsettling consequences. This research delves into the
multifaceted dimensions of discrimination in the military, the psychological and emotional toll it
takes on victims, and the role of crisis intervention in providing immediate support, navigating a
way forward, and mitigating the severe repercussions of these experiences. Discrimination,
whether based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or other factors, not only undermines the well-
being and morale of individuals but also jeopardizes the effectiveness of the entire military unit.
The study explores common mental health symptoms, relationship dynamics, and the challenge
of identifying military members in need of crisis intervention. It also highlights best practices in
crisis intervention, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and
Crisis Intervention Teams (CITs) tailored to military settings. Moreover, spiritual applications
and cultural considerations are discussed, emphasizing the importance of cultural competence
when working with the diverse and unique military community. This research underscores the
urgency of crisis intervention as an indispensable instrument in safeguarding the rights, dignity,
and unity of those who serve their nations and contributes to a more inclusive and equitable
military environment.
Introduction
In the realm of armed forces, where unity and cohesion are paramount, discrimination
can have far-reaching and deeply unsettling consequences. For those who serve in the military,
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CRISIS INTERVENTION FOR VICTIMS OF DISCRIMINATION IN THE MILITARY
the experience of discrimination, whether based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or other
factors, can shatter the very foundations of trust and camaraderie that are essential to mission
success. It is a harsh reality that discrimination persists in military organizations, despite ongoing
efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.
Discrimination in the Military
Discrimination, in all its forms, not only undermines the well-being and morale of the
individuals affected but also jeopardizes the effectiveness of the entire military unit. The lasting
effects of discrimination are damaging, not just to the unit, but to the victim. When speaking of
gender discrimination alone, 49% of women interviewed in a study conducted by the Department
of Military Psychiatry stated they were treated differently because of their gender. In the same
study 53% of women reported being subjected to offensive sexist remarks (Gurung et al, 2018).
Race and nationality also play a big role when it comes to discrimination in the military. An
astounding 57% of minority service members felt some sort of workplace hostility due to their
race, and 28% felt their career progression had been stifled at times because of it (Daniel et al.,
2022). These situations although broad, have individual occurrences within them that create a
crisis for the service member. The role of crisis intervention in providing immediate support to
victims, navigating an immediate way forward, and mitigating the often severe repercussions of
these experiences is paramount to repairing the trust the individual has in the organization, as
well as the morale and effectiveness of the unit.
What is Crisis Intervention?
Crisis intervention is a brief, efficient, goal-oriented, and time-limited psychological and
social support strategy aimed at assisting individuals and groups in coping with and mitigating
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the immediate impact of a crisis or traumatic event. It involves providing immediate assistance,
support, and resources to help individuals regain a sense of control, stability, and emotional well-
being during or after a crisis (Wang & Gupta, 2024). When someone hears the term crisis
intervention, obvious events and large-scale crises such as 9/11, natural disasters, and war come
to mind when thinking of the crisis for which intervention is needed (James & Gilliland, 2017).
These situations are handled by government agencies like the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA), and charitable organizations like the Red Cross and Salvation Army. However,
it wasn’t up until recently that the organizations had any involvement with crisis intervention
from a mental health perspective (James & Gilliland, 2017). A crisis in this realm is
characterized by a profound and distressing event, such as a divorce, exposure to violence, the
loss of a loved one, or the diagnosis of a severe illness. Effective crisis intervention entails
several key steps that aim to assist the person in crisis. These steps include gathering pertinent
information about the individual, building a supportive and trusting rapport, engaging in open
dialogue about the circumstances surrounding the crisis, and offering emotional support (Wang
& Gupta, 2024).
In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the importance of crisis
intervention as a responsive and proactive measure in addressing discrimination-related incidents
within the military. Although, a specific program or measure may not exist to provide that
immediate crisis intervention, the military, and specifically the United States Navy, has several
resources that offer forms that offer immediate crisis intervention like resources. Crisis
intervention spans beyond merely offering solace to victims; it serves as a vital tool for
promoting accountability, initiating cultural change, and preventing the recurrence of
discrimination. Highlighting the significance of crisis intervention in facilitating the recovery and
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resilience of military personnel facing discrimination while fostering a more inclusive and
equitable military environment is the only way a more robust crisis intervention process will
exist.
Purpose of this Research
The collected research will delve into the multifaceted dimensions of discrimination in
the military, the psychological and emotional toll it takes on victims, the principles and strategies
of effective crisis intervention, and real-world case studies and best practices. By the time we
conclude this exploration, we hope a clearer picture will emerge, one that underscores the
urgency of crisis intervention as an indispensable instrument in safeguarding the rights, dignity,
and unity of those who serve their nations with unwavering dedication. In doing so, we aim to
contribute to a more inclusive and equitable military, where discrimination finds no harbor, and
the principles of justice and respect reign supreme.
Mental Health Dynamics/Symptoms
The military, a profession often idealized for its courage, discipline, and sacrifice, is not
immune to the challenges of mental health. Behind the uniform and the bravado, service
members face a complex array of stressors that can take a toll on their psychological well-being.
Common mental health symptoms and dynamics prevalent in the military such as post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety, are growing concerns for the military
population.
The mental health challenges commonly faced by service members, along with military
life in general, have a significant impact on relationships within military families and among
colleagues. Divorce and even abuse within the military family unit is a significant concern.
Additionally, cohesion and camaraderie amongst service members are vital to mission
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effectiveness and success. This camaraderie and cohesion is often jeopardized by individuals
struggling with mental health issues as those who are dealing with the issues keep them to
themselves out of fear of being judged. All of this clearly places a spotlight on the importance of
crisis intervention, follow-on support, and destigmatization.
Common Mental Health Symptoms
Mental health symptoms in the military can vary widely among individuals, but there are
several common mental health issues that service members may experience due to the unique
stressors and demands of military life. It's important to note that the prevalence and severity of
these symptoms can depend on factors such as deployment history, combat exposure, rank, and
personal resilience (Ganz et al., 2021).
When falling victim to crisis events such as discrimination, these mental health
symptoms have a higher probability of manifesting in an individual that is within a population
where such mental health issues occur frequently. Racism and discrimination drastically affect
the service member, as it is associated with subpar mental health and a decreased sense of well-
being, a reduced self-esteem; limited life satisfaction; an increased sense of hopelessness, and
general anger (Coughlin, 2021). When looking at it from the perspective of those who have
faced sexual-related traumas or discrimination, roughly 41.5% of female and 4.0% of male
veterans who served during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom have reported
experiencing some form of sexual trauma, including assault, harassment or discrimination. Data
from the Veteran’s Health Administration (VHA) in 2020 revealed that 32.4% of female veterans
(equivalent to 141,365 individuals) and 1.9% of male veterans (77,309 individuals) reported a
history of sexual trauma or discrimination (McLean et al., 2022). Experiences of military-related
sexual trauma (MST) are closely linked to elevated risks of chronic medical conditions and
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mental health disorders, with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression being
particularly common mental health repercussions of MST (McLean et al., 2022).
PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are some of the most common mental
health symptoms seen in military service members.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Among the most widely recognized mental health issues in the military is PTSD. It often
arises as a consequence of exposure to traumatic events, such as combat experiences, witnessing
violence, or surviving sexual assault. The occurrence of combat-related PTSD in US veterans
ranges from 2% to 17%. In contrast, other Western countries involved in the same conflicts
report a lower prevalence with a more limited range (Inoue, 2023). This disparity results from a
multitude of factors, including the distinct characteristics of each theater of war and changes in
diagnostic criteria over time. Each war presents unique circumstances, varying levels of combat
exposure, and distinct sociopolitical contexts that influence the deployment and return of troops.
Furthermore, differences between research studies contribute to this variation, encompassing
variances in sampling methods and measurement approaches, such as the choice between self-
report and structured interviews. Additionally, the assessment of PTSD symptoms may be subject
to recall bias due to significant delays in evaluation following combat exposure, which can span
several years or even decades. Individuals with PTSD may experience a range of symptoms,
including intrusive memories (flashbacks), nightmares, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, and
avoidance of situations reminiscent of the trauma (Inoue, 2023).
Depression
The relentless demands of military service, coupled with the stress of deployments,
frequent relocations, and separation from family, can precipitate depression. Common symptoms
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of depression include persistent sadness, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities,
alterations in appetite or sleep patterns, and feelings of hopelessness. Depression stands as the
most prevalent mood disorder within the general populace, with an estimated lifetime occurrence
rate of up to 21%. This incidence differs by gender, with females experiencing a lifetime
occurrence as high as 25%, while males face an occurrence rate of up to 12% (Inoue, 2023).
Given these substantial rates within the general population, the VA (Department of Veterans
Affairs) and DoD (Department of Defense) express significant interest in scrutinizing these
statistics concerning active-duty personnel and veterans. Members of the military who are
deployed to various conflict zones, often separated from their families and exposed to a
multitude of stressors, confront an elevated risk of developing Major Depressive Disorder
(MDD). A 2012 report revealed that 15% of service members returning from deployment
exhibited symptoms consistent with MDD (Inoue, 2023).
Anxiety disorders
Anxiety disorders (AD), encompassing conditions like generalized anxiety disorder and
panic disorder, can manifest due to the constant uncertainty and high-pressure nature of military
life. Approximately 15% of active duty service members and veterans suffer from some sort of
anxiety (Inoue, 2023). ADs also hold the capacity to influence the state of military structural
readiness. Between October 2001 and October 2013, approximately 5.7% of aeromedical
evacuations were attributed to an AD, without factoring in concurrent diagnoses. Moreover, in
2017, ADs were listed as the eighth most common cause of medical and mental health
engagements, accounting for 2.8% of all such encounters among active duty service members
(Inoue, 2023). They also ranked as the sixth highest contributor to the total number of bed days,
constituting 5.4% of bed day occurrences during the same year. Symptoms of Anxiety disorder
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may involve excessive worry, restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, and physical
manifestations such as rapid heartbeat and sweating.
Substance abuse
Military culture, which emphasizes resilience and self-reliance, can paradoxically lead
service members to cope with stress through substance abuse, including alcohol and drugs.
Substance abuse can exacerbate underlying mental issues. Amongst military personnel, alcohol
use is prevalent and is frequently utilized for stress relief and socializing. Substance abuse is
associated with significant adverse medical, psychiatric, interpersonal, and occupational
outcomes (Inoue, 2023). A study conducted on military personnel revealed that approximately
30% of completed suicides and around 20% of deaths resulting from high-risk behavior were
attributed to alcohol or drug use (Inoue, 2023).
Relationship Dynamics
Military life can significantly impact relationships, including marriages, families, and
friendships. Frequent deployments, long separations, and the inherent stress of military service
can strain marital bonds, requiring couples to navigate challenges like communication gaps and
reintegration difficulties. Families often face disruptions due to relocations and the absence of a
parent or spouse, impacting children's emotional well-being. Friendships can also be affected as
service members move between duty stations, leading to a sense of isolation.
When you add the challenges associated with facing a crisis, these relationship dynamics
are even further compromised. The emotional and mental drain that recovering from a crisis
situation creates is taxing on an individual whose emotions are already affected by the job itself.
Relationship issues can present themselves within the family and marriage as well as the unit and
camaraderie throughout the unit.
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Marital and family relationships
Because military duty often results in frequent separations, deployments, and the
challenge of acclimating to new surroundings, these difficulties can have a substantial impact on
the dynamics of both marital and familial relationships. Spouses and children may grapple with
increased levels of stress and anxiety, which can contribute to hurdles in effective
communication and occasional disputes (Ray et al., 2023).
Comradeship and unit cohesion
The connections between military peers are defined by a deep camaraderie and trust that
stems from shared experiences and reliance on each other in high-stress circumstances. Yet,
jointly witnessing traumatic events, as well as individually facing them can give rise to distinct
interpersonal dynamics. Service members might hesitate to share their mental health challenges,
apprehensive about potential perceptions of vulnerability, or concerned about facing stigma
within their units (Ray et al., 2023).
Identifying the Military Population
Identifying the military population as a whole isn’t as much of a challenge as it is to
identify those service members who are in need of assistance. A new crisis interventionist who is
already in the capacity to work with military members has the challenge of offering assistance to
a demographic of the population who is often reluctant to seek mental health assistance. The
stigma, judgment, and perceived detriment to career, often turns servicemembers away from
seeking mental health. Around 60% of military personnel grappling with mental health issues
refrain from seeking assistance, despite the potential benefits of professional treatment. Various
military studies consistently highlight concerns about stigma and judgment as the primary
obstacles hindering individuals from seeking help for their mental health concerns.
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Mental health symptoms and dynamics within the military underscore the critical need for
proactive intervention and support. Despite the image of stoicism and strength associated with
the armed forces, service members face unique stressors that can impact their psychological
well-being. Understanding and addressing common issues like PTSD, depression, anxiety, and
substance abuse is essential for maintaining the mental health of those who serve (Sharp et al.,
2015).
Getting service members to look past the perceived stigmas and potential judgment and
identifying military members in need of crisis intervention is a critical task for new crisis
interventionists. Military personnel face unique stressors and challenges, making it essential to
recognize signs of distress and provide timely support. Taking advantage of certain strategies
such as monitoring behavioral changes and utilizing appropriate screening tools will assist in
identifying service members in need of care. However, a key element in identifying those who
may be in need of service is establishing communication with the chain of command, and
encouraging that communication flows both ways. The chain of command of a service member,
from the Commanding Officer down to the immediate supervisor, is best suited to assist in
identifying members in need of crisis intervention care. These leaders often have valuable
information about the. In an interview on crisis intervention and Mental Health in the military,
retired Navy Command Master Chief Stephen J. Aderhold stated, “A Sailor’s chain of command,
specifically speaking about the Chief Petty Officer or the First Class Petty Officer, are the closest
people to any Sailor, at times even closer than that Sailor’s own family. Getting that buy-in from
the chain of command can be key in not only identifying those who need care, but also
highlighting the importance of such care to the Chain of Command” (Aderhold & Santa Cruz).
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Training and education for a new crisis interventionist will also be key for a new crisis
interventionist. As new crisis interventionists, it's vital to undergo specialized training on military
culture, common mental health issues within the military, and crisis intervention techniques. This
knowledge lays the foundation for understanding the context in which military members operate
and the challenges they may face. The life that a service member lives is vastly different from
that of a civilian, so understanding these differences will be vital to identifying potential military
members in need.
Identifying military members in crisis requires a combination of knowledge, empathy,
and effective communication. New crisis interventionists can make a significant impact by being
proactive, culturally sensitive, and committed to supporting those who serve their country. By
using these strategies, they can help ensure that military members receive the assistance they
need during times of crisis.
Best Practices in Crisis Intervention
The active duty military population is a unique group of people whose needs may differ
from that of the everyday civilian. Along with access to mental health care being a challenge,
what would create a need for this care within service members will also dictate the best possible
practices to address crisis intervention. Taking all of this into consideration, Trauma-Focused
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and the use of Crisis Intervention Teams are two
practices that would make a significant impact in providing crisis intervention care to military
service members in need. With TF-CBT focusing on memories, reminders, stimuli, and events
from the trauma, it is a more than suitable treatment option to help service members quickly
refocus their lives after a traumatic event (James & Gilliland, 2017). Crisis Intervention Teams
(CTT) originally started rooted with law enforcement in 1987 with the intent to provide enough
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training to police officers to enable them to defuse certain mental health-related situations
(Watson et al., 2017). The CTT model can easily be tailored to fit a military unit and provide
crisis intervention services to those in need. Whereas the original purpose of the CTT was to
train police officers to deal with those who are emotionally disturbed and mentally ill, changing
some of the supporting organizations and key players would make this method easily adaptable
to serve military members in a capacity that helps those suffering from trauma move forward
(James & Gilliland, 2017).
Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Discrimination within the military can have profound and lasting effects on service
members, leading to emotional distress, psychological trauma, and crisis situations. Trauma-
Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a well-established and evidence-based
therapeutic approach that holds promise as a viable option for crisis intervention in addressing
trauma resulting from discrimination among would be effective in mitigating the psychological
impact of discrimination-related trauma and provide immediate urgent crisis intervention when
needed.
Because discrimination-related trauma can result in significant psychological distress,
that leads to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and
crisis situations, these experiences can compromise service members' well-being, military
performance, and overall quality of life.
TF-CBT is a structured and evidence-based therapeutic approach designed to address
trauma-related symptoms in individuals of all ages. It combines cognitive-behavioral techniques
with trauma-specific interventions and has been widely used to treat trauma resulting from
various forms of adversity, including discrimination (James & Gilliland, 2017).
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TF-CBT can be adapted to specifically address the unique aspects of discrimination-
related trauma, including exploring issues of identity, self-worth, and coping with ongoing
discrimination experiences. Culturally competent therapists can tailor TF-CBT to the specific
needs of service members from diverse backgrounds. In crisis situations related to
discrimination trauma, TF-CBT can provide immediate relief by conducting a thorough crisis
assessment to ensure the safety and stability of the service member. This assessment includes
evaluating the presence of suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors, or other urgent concerns.
TF-CBT techniques, such as relaxation and stress reduction, can be applied in crisis
intervention to help service members manage acute distress and regain a sense of emotional
stability (James & Gilliland, 2017). These strategies empower individuals to cope effectively
with overwhelming emotions and anxiety stemming from discrimination-related trauma. Crisis
intervention with TF-CBT involves offering immediate support, validation, and empathy to
service members. It creates a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can express their
feelings and thoughts related to discrimination trauma. Additionally, TF-CBT equips service
members with cognitive-behavioral coping strategies to manage discrimination-related triggers
and distressing thoughts. These strategies enhance their resilience and ability to navigate crisis
situations.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a promising and viable
option for crisis intervention among military service members suffering from trauma resulting
from discrimination. By addressing the psychological impact of discrimination, providing
immediate support, and equipping service members with coping strategies, TF-CBT offers a path
to recovery and resilience. Culturally competent adaptations ensure that interventions are
inclusive and sensitive to the diverse experiences of service members. As the military continues
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its commitment to the well-being of its members, the integration of TF-CBT into crisis
intervention practices could potentially play a pivotal role in mitigating the psychological toll of
discrimination-related trauma.
Crisis Intervention Teams
The use of Crisis Intervention Teams (CIT) would prove to be a viable option for
addressing trauma from discrimination among military service members as the unification of
various personnel, organizations, and resources can be combined under one umbrella and then
dispatched to address a potential crisis. CITs are typically specialized teams composed of law
enforcement officers, mental health professionals, and other relevant stakeholders trained to
respond to crises involving individuals experiencing mental health or emotional distress. They
employ a crisis-centered approach emphasizing de-escalation, empathy, and connection with the
individual (Crisis Intervention Team, 2023). In tailoring them to fit the military, these
specialized teams could be composed of Deployed Resiliency Counselors (DRCs), Military and
Family Life Counselors (MFLACs), Chaplains, Suicide Prevention Specialists, Command Equal
Opportunity Members, and Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Victim Advocates (SAPR-
VAs).
CIT programs encompass various core components, such as specialized training where
team members receive training in recognizing signs of crisis, de-escalation techniques, and
communication skills (James & Gilliland, 2017). Operating within the team also encourages
collaboration between the different assigned factions such as mental health providers, crisis
responders, and community organizations to provide comprehensive care. When applying this to
the military, one could add the specific mental health and crisis response resources that each
specific branch may have.
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CIT teams are equipped to provide immediate crisis response for service members
experiencing trauma from discrimination. They would be trained to assess the situation and
address any immediate safety concerns and use the members and organizations within the team
as needed for the specific crisis circumstance. Additionally, CIT personnel have the ability to
employ de-escalation techniques to defuse tense situations and prevent the escalation of crisis
episodes. These techniques prioritize empathy, active listening, and non-confrontational
communication. This is key especially when service members who face traumas from
discrimination find themselves triggered when having to interact with certain members of their
command or participate in certain required tasking. The ability to de-escalate could quickly
serve as a difference-maker in a victim's career.
Crisis Intervention Teams (CIT) represent a promising and effective option for addressing
trauma resulting from discrimination among military service members. Through immediate crisis
response, de-escalation techniques, culturally competent interventions, and collaborative efforts,
CIT programs offer a holistic approach with a multitude of resources to crisis intervention.
Spiritual Applications/Interventions
The Book of Job provides some basic, yet effective, guidelines on how to be of service to
those traumatized by Crisis. By making room for divine intervention in the process of crisis
intervention it allows for a personal experience with God to be created, much like that of which
was experienced by Job. During times of trauma and crisis, individuals become susceptible to
various forms of emotional and spiritual manipulation. Therefore, it is essential to encourage
receptiveness to divine intervention while staying within the boundaries of Christian spirituality
(Hanes, 2023). When examining crisis intervention through the lens of the Book of Job, one
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might draw parallels to contemporary existential psychotherapy. Both address the profound
question of life's meaning during times of crisis.
Individuals experiencing a crisis require both immediate assistance and subsequent long-
term treatment. Immediate aid focuses on their immediate physical and acute emotional needs,
while later treatment addresses the emotional and spiritual aspects connected to the crisis. The
Book of Job serves as an extended exploration of the theme of suffering's meaning (Hanes,
2023).
Aside from the book of Job, scripture in itself provides hope to those in need via faith. In
order for crisis intervention to truly be effective faith in the process is necessary. Fortifying that
with the spiritual element only bolsters the end result. Deuteronomy 31:6 reads, “Be strong and
courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you;
he will never leave you nor forsake you.” In the arena of crisis intervention, the element of faith
is key, and therefore the application of scripture only provides more paths to hope for those
undergoing crisis recovery.
Cultural Considerations
Culture encompasses the collective values, meanings, beliefs, and norms shared within a
specific group. An individual's cultural background and their comprehension of another culture
play a significant role in how they perceive and respond to social phenomena (Yeo et al., 2017).
People hailing from diverse organizational, ethnic, or religious backgrounds bring their unique
perspectives and behaviors to crises and emergency situations (Yeo et al., 2017). As a result,
comprehending specifics associated with different cultures becomes imperative for effective
crisis intervention.
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Working with the military in mental health and crisis intervention requires careful
consideration of cultural factors, as the military community has its unique cultural norms, values,
and experiences. These unique cultural norms and experiences will play a large role in not only
how the crisis a service member is facing manifests, but also how a crisis interventionalist should
approach resolution. Things such as rank and hierarchy, deployment and reintegration,
associated stigmas with mental health, cultural and religious diversity, confidentiality in
reporting, and military terminology are all elements that require consideration. Crisis
interventionalists should have a solid understanding of military culture, including rank structure,
mission-oriented mindset, and the demands and stressors associated with military service. This
knowledge helps build rapport and trust with service members.
The military operates on a strict rank hierarchy. It's not only crucial to show respect for
this hierarchy, especially when working with service members of higher rank, but also to
understand the challenges associated with each rank. Those of a higher rank and positions deal
with stressors associated with large scopes of responsibility, whereas in contrast those of lower
ranks deal with stressors more associated with lack of control or understanding of their role
within the organization.
Mental health stigma is prevalent in the military. It is imperative that when working in
the crisis intervention realm, one should actively work to reduce stigma by promoting mental
health awareness and emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Studies
have found that active duty personnel are reluctant to seek mental health assistance out of
concern about one’s future within the military.
The military is diverse, with service members from various ethnic, religious, and cultural
backgrounds. So aside from the specific considerations for the someone being a service member,
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one must be prepared to acknowledge a wide variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds, that
could easily play a factor in the success of any crisis intervention. Many service members have
strong spiritual or religious beliefs, and these beliefs are not restricted to the Christian faith. This
makes the spiritual application an element that must be done carefully and with the utmost
respect to the member.
Cultural competence and sensitivity are essential when working with the military in
mental health and crisis intervention. Building trust and rapport by acknowledging and
respecting the unique aspects of military culture can significantly enhance the effectiveness of
mental health support for service members (Westphal & Convoy, 2015).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the realm of the military is not immune to the scourge of discrimination,
which can have profound and lasting effects on service members, both psychologically and
emotionally. Discrimination, whether based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or other factors,
not only undermines individual well-being but also erodes the unity and cohesion essential to
mission success. The statistics regarding discrimination within the military are alarming, and it is
clear that urgent action is needed to address this pervasive issue.
Crisis intervention plays a critical role in mitigating the immediate and long-term
consequences of discrimination-related trauma. It is a brief, yet efficient strategy, aimed at
providing immediate support to individuals facing crises, helping them regain a sense of control
and emotional stability. Discrimination-related crises in the military can take many forms, from
gender-based discrimination to racial and ethnic biases, all of which can result in severe mental
health symptoms and distress.
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Two promising approaches for crisis intervention within the military context are Trauma-
Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Crisis Intervention Teams (CIT). TF-CBT
offers a structured and evidence-based approach to address trauma-related symptoms resulting
from discrimination. It focuses on providing immediate support, conducting crisis assessments,
and equipping service members with coping strategies to manage discrimination-related triggers.
On the other hand, CIT programs, adapted to the military environment, bring together various
resources and personnel to respond to crises involving discrimination trauma. These teams
emphasize de-escalation techniques, empathy, and collaboration among mental health
professionals, military leaders, and community organizations.
Spiritual interventions, drawing inspiration from the Book of Job and relevant scripture,
can also provide solace and hope to service members undergoing crisis and trauma. Faith and
spirituality can be integral to the healing process, offering individuals a source of strength and
resilience during difficult times.
Additionally, cultural considerations are paramount when providing crisis intervention
within the military. Understanding the unique aspects of military culture, including rank
structures, mission-oriented mindset, mental health stigma, and religious diversity, is essential
for building trust and rapport with service members. Cultural competence and sensitivity ensure
that crisis interventionists can effectively address the diverse needs of military personnel.
In the end, addressing discrimination-related trauma within the military requires a
comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. Crisis intervention, grounded in evidence-based
techniques, spiritual support, and cultural awareness, can play a pivotal role in not only
alleviating the immediate suffering of service members but also fostering a more inclusive and
equitable military environment. By recognizing the importance of crisis intervention, we can
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contribute to the well-being, resilience, and unity of those who dedicate themselves to serving
their nations with unwavering dedication. It is our hope that this research will shed light on the
urgency of crisis intervention as an indispensable tool in safeguarding the rights, dignity, and
unity of those who serve. In doing so, we strive to promote a military where discrimination finds
no harbor, and the principles of justice, respect, and inclusion reign supreme.
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CRISIS INTERVENTION FOR VICTIMS OF DISCRIMINATION IN THE MILITARY
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