Spiritual First Aid: Spiritual and Emotional Care in CrisisChikamu

Belonging Needs

We were created to belong, to be a part of a community. First Corinthians reminds us that we are all a part of one body, the body of Christ. In times of crisis, normal forms of belonging may be disrupted. This can cause people to experience a loss of connection and ignite feelings of isolation. Research shows that social and spiritual isolation is a strong predictor of negative mental health outcomes (e.g., depression, anxiety, suicide risk). People can cope better and are stronger when they can seek and receive support from others (Ecc. 4:12). We can demonstrate Christ’s love by helping restore belonging where it has been threatened or lost.

Help with Humility: 

First: listen (James 1:19). Recognize that each of you can learn something from the other. Remember that people are experts in their own needs. Be careful not to assume their needs and don’t put the pressure on yourself to be perfect in your response. Just be there.

Engage in practical presence:

Focus on being present in the moment. Show genuine concern and warmth. Offer true compassion as they share their story and needs. Additionally, it’s essential not to judge someone’s story as they share. We’re called to clothe ourselves with “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience,” (Col. 3:12). There’s no room for judgment.

People need to know and feel they belong, especially in a crisis. Start by listening humbly and being present, then ensure they are connected to their community, whether that be family, friends, church, or other.

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The BLESS Method is Spiritual First Aid’s assessment and intervention framework for humbly helping and providing practical presence. BLESS represents the first letter of each of the five core needs (Belonging, Livelihood, Emotional, Safety, and Spiritual needs) that Spiritual First Aid was designed to assist.