Traumatic Stress Response team aids Airmen in coping with tragedy Published April 29, 2008 By Senior Airman Shane Dunaway 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Tragic accidents resulting in the loss of an Airman can happen anywhere at any time, whether it's during a deployment, on the job stateside or even while home on leave. The Traumatic Stress Response team takes on the challenge of helping people cope with the loss of a friend or co-worker. Traumatic Stress Response, previously known as Critical Incident Stress Management, originally started in the early 90's to foster resiliency of active duty members who respond or experience reactions to traumatic experiences. The team is a valuable tool for the Air Force that can be used to improve morale and well-being. "The team is responsible for assembling at the unit call of the commander after a major traumatic event, such as a fatal accident or a suicide," said Maj. Jovanna Wilson, Life Skills Support Center flight commander. "Through education, screening, psychological first aid and referrals, this team can assist Air Force members with emotional recovery from a major event." The team offers several means to aid emotional recovery, such as small group talk sessions and a series of four one-on-one meetings. "It is important to keep in mind these interactions are not therapy or medical assessment," she said. The team offers counseling opportunities, but the support network doesn't end there. "After the group assembles to meet with the unit about the traumatic events, we provide contact cards that reiterate (expected) normal responses and behaviors," Major Wilson said. "We also try to attend the memorial services to show support." For more information about the program, call Major Wilson at 722-1873.