Economic crisis. Education crisis. Energy crisis. Environmental crisis. It's easy to become immune to headlines like these, because crises can feel insurmountable. It can leave a person feeling ineffective. A psychologist should understand that behind broad impersonal problems like economic crises, there are individuals and communities that need assistance. For example, a single mother who lost her job and can't afford to pay the bills, putting her family's welfare at risk. A couple whose marriage begins to fall apart when the husband's salary is cut, causing both economic and marital stress. These are both examples of individuals experiencing crisis. Exposure to crisis can also affect the psychologist. It's important to acknowledge that being surrounded by human suffering can bring about vicarious trauma. Examining various case studies allows you to evaluate levels of crisis, learn intervention techniques, assess the needs of those facing hardship, and learn methods to avoid burnout and maintain your own health.