AN 65: Support individuals who are distressed

1. Understand causes and effects of distress on individuals

• 1.1 Identify causes of distress
• 1.2 Describe signs that may indicate an individual is distressed
• 1.3 Explain how distress may affect the way an individual communicates

2. Understand potential impacts on own well-being when supporting an individual who is distressed

• 2.1 Explain how supporting an individual who is distressed may impact on own well-being
• 2.2 Identify sources of support to manage own feelings when supporting an individual who is distressed

3. Be able to prepare to support individuals who are experiencing distress

• 3.1 Access information and advice in relation to supporting an individual who is distressed
• 3.2 Recognise signs of distress that indicate the need for specialist intervention
• 3.3 Describe how to access specialist intervention

4. Be able to support individuals who are experiencing distress

• 4.1 Communicate empathy and reassurance in a way that is sensitive to the personal beliefs and preferences of the individual
• 4.2 Work in ways to alleviate immediate distress
• 4.3 Respond to the individual’s reactions
• 4.4 Involve others when supporting an individual who is distressed

5. Be able to support individuals to manage distress

• 5.1 Encourage the individual to express thoughts and feelings
• 5.2 Work with the individual and others to identify triggers for distress
• 5.3 Work with an individual and others to manage triggers or alleviate causes of distress
• 5.4 Encourage the individual to review ways of coping with distress

6. Be able to record and report on an individual’s distress

• 6.1 Maintain records relating to the individual’s distress and the support provided
• 6.2 Report on periods of distress in line with agreed ways of working