What is Distress?

Psychological distress refers to the negative feelings (such as anxiety, anger, depression, or frustration) that individuals may experience in response to pressures or demands. Distress can occur when a person is subjected to demands and expectations that are out of keeping with their needs, abilities, skills and coping strategies. Distress can lead to mental and physical ill health.

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What is Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Network Ireland

Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Network Ireland provides a forum for the promotion and exchange of best practice information on CISM and information on standards, availability and provision of training for CISM. The Network, which is based in the Institute of Technology Carlow, is run by an inter-agency National Steering Committee (NSC) comprising a wide range of representatives from the north and south of Ireland, including statutory, voluntary, emergency, military, and other agencies. This Network is the first of its kind in Ireland and is the leading group to advise, work with, and support the emergency services (and others) in implementing CISM in Ireland.

CISM Network Ireland Mission Statement

A forum for the promotion and exchange of best practice information on CISM and information on standards, availability and provision of training for CISM

CISM Network Ireland Objectives

The Network's objectives, as per the strategic plan, are as follows:

  • To promote awareness of, education in, and research on, Critical Incident Stress Management in Ireland
  • To make information on the subject available
  • To provide a forum for co-ordinating activities and to support work of those individuals and organisations who are working in CISM
  • To monitor and appraise international practice in CISM
  • To develop capacity for Critical Incident Stress Management, including education and training
  • To liaise with and to influence appropriate individuals/ bodies in support of the above objectives

Strategic Plan 2010-2013

Please Click here to download the Strategic Plan

Our Members

The following are a list of the current membership of the network


  • National
    Ambulance Service
    Irish
    Prison Service

    Irish
    Red Cross

    Order of Malta
    Ireland
    Civil
    Defence

    Defence Forces
    Ireland
    Vhi Corporate
    Solutions

    Dublin Fire
    Brigade
    Oberstown
    Campus

    Irish Coast Guard
    Health Service Executive

    Pre-Hospital Emergency
    Care Council

    State Claims Agency
    TUSLA

Webmaster: Martin Gillick