Which of the following is true of the timing of CISD delivery after a crisis?

• A. It is delivered within hours of the event
• B. It is delivered between one and three weeks after a crisis
• C. It is delivered months after
• D. It is delivered before the event

Answer: (B)

Timing matters in CISD because people need space to experience and begin to regulate their initial distress before a structured processing session. Delivering debriefing within hours after a crisis can feel premature, push participants to recount traumatic material before they’re ready, and may heighten distress or avoidance. Waiting too long, such as months after the event, risks missing the period when targeted processing and coping skills can still alter trajectories and prevent longer-term difficulties. The window of one to three weeks after the crisis aligns with when initial reactions have subsided enough for reflective discussion, yet support is still timely enough to normalize experiences, teach coping strategies, and reduce the likelihood of persistent stress responses. So this timing is considered most appropriate.