Psychological support post-release of humanitarian workers taken hostage: the experience of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)

• Published in: British journal of guidance & counselling Vol. 48; no. 3; pp. 360 - 373
• Main Authors: Aebischer Perone, S., Althaus, F., Chappuis, F., Aguirre Zimerman, N., Martinez, E., Regel, S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Routledge 03.05.2020
• Subjects: Abduction; Coping; Counseling; critical incident stress management; Emotional Response; humanitarian; International Organizations; International Programs; Mental Health; Peer Relationship; peer support; post hostage care; Posttraumatic Stress Disorder; Psychological Patterns; Rehabilitation; Social Support Groups; Stress Management; Victims of Crime; World Affairs
• ISSN: 0306-9885; 1469-3534
• DOI: 10.1080/03069885.2018.1461193

Following release, former hostages face many challenges and may struggle to regain control over their lives. Research and evidence on how to effectively address the needs of hostages during their release and afterwards is lacking. The International Committee of the Red Cross has extensive experience in managing hostage situations and has strengthened the practice of care offered to its own affected staff by developing an inter-professional comprehensive seven phase care model adapted to incidents of extended duration with multiple stressors. This includes strong coordination between the different actors involved, combined with long-term peer, social and organisational support, as well as workplace reintegration with guidance by colleagues, and specialised counselling when necessary, to ensure positive outcomes, and minimise permanent sequelae.