According to the guidelines, what should you avoid doing during a crisis?

According to the guidelines, what should you avoid doing during a crisis?

• A. Make promises to help them feel secure.
• B. Promise confidentiality.
• C. Don't make promises.
• D. Offer guaranteed outcomes.

Answer: (C)

During a crisis, you should avoid making promises. Promises can create a false sense of security or commit you to outcomes you can’t guarantee, and if those promises don’t come true, trust can be damaged and the person may feel let down. While it’s important to respect privacy, promising confidentiality without discussing its limits can backfire if safety or other concerns require disclosure. Instead, offer steady support by validating their feelings, explaining clearly what you can do right now, and outlining realistic next steps and resources you will provide. Focus on honest, practical help and follow-through rather than guarantees or assurances you may not be able to fulfill.

During a crisis, you should avoid making promises. Promises can create a false sense of security or commit you to outcomes you can’t guarantee, and if those promises don’t come true, trust can be damaged and the person may feel let down. While it’s important to respect privacy, promising confidentiality without discussing its limits can backfire if safety or other concerns require disclosure. Instead, offer steady support by validating their feelings, explaining clearly what you can do right now, and outlining realistic next steps and resources you will provide. Focus on honest, practical help and follow-through rather than guarantees or assurances you may not be able to fulfill.