The term "crisis" primarily refers to a perception of an event that exceeds a person's:

The term "crisis" refers to a situation where an individual perceives an event as overwhelming and beyond their ability to manage effectively. In this context, coping mechanisms are the tools and strategies that a person has developed to deal with stress, resolve conflicts, and navigate challenging situations. When a person faces a crisis, it typically implies that their existing coping mechanisms are insufficient to handle the stress, confusion, or threat posed by the event.

In a crisis, an individual may feel helpless, anxious, or unable to think clearly because the situation surpasses their ability to cope. This could be triggered by various events, such as sudden loss, trauma, or significant life changes. The perception of crisis is subjective and largely depends on each person's unique set of coping skills; therefore, if their coping mechanisms fall short, they are likely to experience a crisis.

The focus on coping mechanisms highlights the importance of assessing a person's resources and resilience in crisis intervention. Understanding how someone typically manages stress can guide interventions to bolster their coping strategies during a crisis. This approach underscores the significance of enhancing coping skills as a critical step in crisis resolution.