ASAP: Acute Stress Adaptive Protocol
ACUTE STRESS ADAPTIVE PROTOCOL
The Acute Stress Adaptive Protocol (ASAP) is a structured, advanced peer-support–based intervention designed to help individuals regulate acute stress reactions following high-impact or high-intensity events. ASAP focuses on stabilizing the nervous system, reducing immediate stress responses, and restoring functional readiness so individuals can safely return to duty or transition into rest and recovery.
This protocol is not therapy and does not replace clinical care. Instead, ASAP provides practical, evidence-informed tools that support emotional regulation, situational awareness, and stress adaptation in the moment or shortly after an incident. It can be delivered one-on-one or in small group settings by trained peer supporters and is appropriate for use across responder environments.
ASAP is particularly effective following critical incidents, cumulative stress exposure, or operationally demanding situations where responders may experience heightened physiological or emotional activation. The goal is to support resilience, normalize stress responses, and reduce the long-term impact of unprocessed acute stress.
How Support Animals Help in Crisis Situations
Support animals play a crucial role in providing emotional support and comfort during and after crisis situations. Their presence helps individuals feel safe, grounded, and connected, making it easier to process stressful or traumatic experiences. Here’s how they assist:
Reduces Stress and Anxiety:
Physical interaction with animals, such as petting or hugging, triggers the release of oxytocin (the "feel-good" hormone), which reduces stress levels, lowers blood pressure, and stabilizes heart rates.
Creates a Calming Presence:
In high-stress moments, support animals offer non-judgmental companionship, making it easier for people to open up about their emotions. This calming influence can help de-escalate heightened emotions in the aftermath of a traumatic event.
Encourages Communication:
People who are overwhelmed by trauma often struggle to verbalize their feelings. The presence of a support animal can create a non-threatening environment where individuals feel more comfortable talking or simply being present.
Grounding in Moments of Crisis:
During a crisis, animals can provide emotional grounding, helping individuals stay connected to the present moment. This is especially beneficial for those experiencing panic, dissociation, or post-traumatic stress symptoms.
Strengthens Social Connections:
Support animals facilitate peer bonding by encouraging conversation among responders during group sessions or debriefings. This shared experience helps reduce isolation and fosters a sense of community.
Supports Emotional Regulation:
For first responders and others who suppress emotions to function in their roles, support animals can help them feel and express emotions in a healthy way, promoting emotional recovery.
Accessible Comfort:
Animals provide immediate comfort during crisis debriefings, particularly when professional help might not be available right away. They act as a bridge between initial trauma and further mental health care.
Support animals bring compassion, comfort, and emotional relief to individuals in crisis, helping them feel safe, process difficult experiences, and start the healing process. Whether through structured debriefings or informal encounters, these animals are powerful tools for reducing stress and building resilience during challenging times..