What is critical incident stress (CIS)?

Critical incident stress (CIS) refers to the psychological and emotional disturbance that can occur following exposure to a traumatic event, particularly those that are deemed extreme or highly stressful. The correct response highlights that CIS is characterized by incident-specific discomfort that can last from two days to a month after the event. This timeframe indicates that while the response is temporary, it can significantly impact an individual's mental state, particularly when they are subjected to traumatic situations, such as those often faced by law enforcement officers and emergency responders.

Understanding that CIS is a normal reaction after extreme events helps in recognizing that not everyone will necessarily experience long-term psychological effects. The focus on the incident-specific nature underscores that the stress response is tied to a particular event, rather than a general or ongoing condition. In summary, the correct answer captures the essential characteristics of CIS, focusing on its nature as a temporary but significant reaction to specific traumatic incidents, which is crucial for proper assessment and support for those affected.