Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)
The TWU Local 556 Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Committee is a group of 75 Flight Attendants, representing all eleven bases, that provide confidential support in the event of trauma. Several have attended specialized training in suicide prevention, stress management, grief training, and critical incident stress management involving children. Many of us have experienced serious life events as well, and approach every situation with care and compassion. We know life can be stressful and can feel overwhelming at times. CISM is available 24/7 to listen to your concerns and provide resources to help get you back on track.
CISM may be contacted by the Union, Management, Network Operations Control (NOC), or contacted directly by you. When a major traumatic event occurs, we work behind the scenes, often coordinating with several departments as needed, to ensure the well-being of our Flight Attendants.
If you are involved in a traumatic event at work, during your overnight, or experiencing trauma in your personal life, the specially trained Flight Attendants of CISM are ready to assist you. We are always available to answer your calls, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For assistance, please call our confidential hotline at 214-640-4380.
Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States. On average, there are 129 suicides per day.
There’s no single cause that leads to suicide. Suicide most often occurs when stressors and health issues converge to create an experience of hopelessness and despair. Depression is the most common condition associated with suicide, and it is often undiagnosed or left untreated. Most people who actively manage their mental health conditions lead fulfilling lives. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse problems, especially when unaddressed, increase the risk of suicide.
Ask
Keep them safe
Be there
Help them connect
Follow Up
Twelve Warning Signs of Suicide:
Feeling like a burden
Withdrawing or isolating himself/herself
Increased anxiety, agitation, or acting recklessly
Feeling trapped, or in unbearable pain
Increased substance abuse
Looking for a way to access lethal means (e.g. medication, firearm, etc.)
Increased anger or rage
Extreme mood swings
Expressing hopelessness
Sleeping too little or too much
Talking about wanting to die
Having a plan and giving away possessions
Clear Skies is our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provided by Optum Health and is available under your BenefitsPlus or Regular Plan medical options. Clear Skies is staffed by experienced professionals and clinical counselors who can offer immediate assistance and direct you to a counselor near you for assistance to help cope with any of life’s crises. There are options for telephonic or video counseling. The Clear Skies website is full of valuable information and educational tools for everyday life concerns as well as emotional support.
- CISM – 214-640-4380
- FADAP – 214-640-4307
- Clear Skies – 1-800-742-8911 or through swaclearskies.com
- Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273- TALK (8255)
- Veterans – call 1-800-TALK press #1
- Crisis Text Line – text TALK to 741741
- The Trevor Project – LGBTQ youth and their allies – 1-866-488-7386
- RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline – 1-800-656-4673
When someone you know dies by suicide, it is common to feel shocked, confused, angry, sad, or any combination of emotions. Due to the stigma surrounding suicide, survivors might have a difficult time reaching out to find support to help process through the grief. For more information and resources click here.
In Unity,