Facilitator Guide 5: Tough Topics

Use the Tough Topics Process When:

• A group member mentions a traumatic event, such as suicide, violence, arrest, restraint, involuntary commitment, traumatic loss

Why the Tough Topics Process Is Important:

• Allows the facilitator to address traumatic events

Steps

1. Go to the Tough Topics Process, direct with empathy.

   “Let’s talk about this. This is really hard stuff.”

2. Own the Tough Topics yourself.

   “I’ve had a similar experience of…”

3. Tune the whole group into the subject by asking for a show of hands (make sure to raise your hand as well) and then air out the situation by starting a discussion.

   “How many of you have experienced or felt something similar? [Pause for a show of hands.] Let’s talk about this. [Pause for questions and discussion.]”

4. Ask the person dealing with the crisis what his or her specific needs are right now.

   “What do you think you need right now?”

5. See what the group can do to help that is practical and constructive.

   “How can we help _____ to meet this need?”

6. Go to the Principles of Support, share experiences and refer the group to which Principle they found most helpful in getting through their own difficult time.

   “I’d like to ask the group: Can you tell me what Principle you found most helpful in getting through your own difficult times?”

7. Ask the person dealing with the trauma, what Principle of Support might help?

   “Can you tell us what Principle might help you right now?”

8. Finally, underline strength and close on the subject on a positive note.

   “The Principles of Support help us to focus on hope when times are tough. We recognize the courage and determination of each member of this group for getting through traumatic events like these.”