How should staff respond to a youth who is displaying signs of severe distress?

The correct response involves approaching the youth calmly, ensuring their safety, and utilizing active listening to understand their needs. This approach is essential because it fosters a sense of trust and safety for the youth in distress, which can help de-escalate the situation. When staff members remain calm and attentive, it communicates to the youth that they are cared for and that their feelings matter.

Active listening allows staff to accurately identify the root of the youth's distress, which can lead to more appropriate and effective support. By understanding what the youth is experiencing, staff can tailor their responses to meet the individual’s specific needs, ultimately guiding them towards recovery or a calmer state of mind without exacerbating feelings of anxiety or panic.

In contrast, ignoring the youth can lead to feelings of isolation and neglect, potentially making the situation worse. Distracting other youth can create confusion and chaos, which is counterproductive for managing distress. Giving orders can be perceived as authoritarian and dismissive, further intensifying the youth’s anxiety rather than helping them to feel understood and supported.