Impact from true biz 911 emergency calls

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Risa O on September 12, 2009 at 10:47pm

I always take a break after. Not all interpreters do, but it just gives me the shakes, and I feel I have to take a moment to de-escalate from the call before beginning the next one. Maybe this isn't the information you were looking for, but I have been surprised to see other interpreters take very scary calls, and then not log off afterward. Maybe I have a need that they don't. Even if it's brief, I need a moment. I would encourage other interpreters to do the same thing, at the very least.

▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Jenni Robinson on December 1, 2009 at 9:46pm

I remember learning how to use that "detached emotion" - but so often it's very much attached. I agree with Risa O's reply: to give yourself a break to de-escalate before your next call. Whether it's life-and-death or not, just knowing that you are calling the police/ambulance/fire dept for ANY reason can be stressful. For myself, it means my shoulders are up and tense; my arms up and poised ready to relay information; my absolute complete attention in on the situation....even for a "minor" emergency. I'm not an easily freaked-out interpreter, but I can't speak for the rest of my body. :)

▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Gina Gonzalez on December 3, 2009 at 2:18pm

I have noticed a significant shift in my mental and physical responses, i.e. from calm and collected during "every-day" calls to a more heightened awareness and responsive mode... I experience a slight change in heart rate (increased), slight increase of sweat gland secretion in my palms, body tension, and I am slightly more hypervigilant (intense focus on the messages). My processing systems seems a bit more accelerated and intense as well; the responses are similar to a flight or fight response when threatened. Essentially, we are being threatened... our egos are afraid to fail, to do anything that will "tarnish" our self-image etc. hence the threatened-like response.

It is usually better to ask for support during those instances. I find that having another VI present neutralizes me in the areas mentioned. I slowly relax and resume a calm and collected state of being. Especially if the VI is well trained and able to offer me supportive reassurances that help calm me down such as a thumbs up when I render messages accurately (again the ego thing playing a part)... What I usually recommend is having a "personal profile board" listing how you like being "fed", supported, cued for switching etc. support Vis can look at that board and give you exactly what you need. It makes quite a difference.

Thanks for posting the question...

▶ Reply to This