A mental health crisis is a situation where a person’s mental or emotional state puts them or others at risk of harm. It can be triggered by various factors, such as stress, trauma, substance abuse, or a mental disorder. A mental health crisis can manifest in different ways, such as:
- Sui**cidal thoughts or behaviors
- Self-harm or violence
- Psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions
- Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- Extreme mood swings or emotional distress
- Disorientation or confusion
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, it is important to act quickly and seek help. Here are some steps you can take to recognize and respond to a mental health crisis.
How to Recognize and Respond to a Mental Health Crisis
Step 1: Assess the level of risk
The first step is to assess the level of risk that the person in crisis poses to themselves or others. Some signs that indicate a high risk of harm include:
- Expressing a plan or intention to die or hurt themselves or others
- Having access to lethal means, such as weapons, drugs, or sharp objects
- Showing signs of hopelessness, guilt, or shame
- Saying goodbye to loved ones or giving away possessions
- Isolating themselves from others or withdrawing from activities
- Exhibiting erratic or aggressive behavior
- Having a history of previous sui**cide attempts or self-harm
If you notice any of these signs, you should call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Do not leave the person alone and try to remove any potential means of harm from their reach. Stay calm and supportive and listen to them without judgment. Let them know that you care and that help is available.
Step 2: Provide emotional support
The second step is to provide emotional support to the person in crisis. This can help them feel less alone and more hopeful. Some ways to provide emotional support include:
- Using active listening skills, such as nodding, reflecting, and summarizing
- Showing empathy and compassion, such as saying “I’m sorry you’re going through this” or “I can see how hard this is for you”
- Validating their feelings and experiences, such as saying “It’s understandable that you feel this way” or “You’re not alone in this”
- Asking open-ended questions, such as “What can I do to help you?” or “How can we cope with this together?”
- Offering encouragement and hope, such as saying “You’re strong and resilient” or “Things can get better with time and treatment”
- Avoiding criticism, blame, or advice, such as saying “You shouldn’t feel this way” or “You just need to snap out of it”
Step 3: Seek professional help
The third step is to seek professional help for the person in crisis. Professional help can provide a comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment plan for the person’s mental health condition. It can also offer ongoing support and resources to prevent future crises. Some sources of professional help include:
- A mental health hotline, such as the National Sui**cide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or the Crisis Text Line at 741741
- A mental health provider, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, counselor, or therapist
- A mental health clinic or hospital, such as an emergency department, a psychiatric ward, or a crisis center
- A mental health support group, such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)
- A mental health app, such as Calm, Headspace, or BetterHelp
One of the benefits of using a mental health app is that it can provide immediate and convenient access to mental health services, such as guided meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, or online counseling.
For example, BetterHelp is a platform that connects users with licensed and experienced therapists who can provide personalized and confidential online therapy. You can learn more about BetterHelp and how it can help you or someone you know cope with a mental health crisis by visiting their website.
Step 4: Follow up and monitor
The fourth step is to follow up and monitor the person in crisis. This can help them stay safe and motivated to recover. Some ways to follow up and monitor include:
- Checking in regularly, such as calling, texting, or visiting
- Reminding them of their coping skills and resources, such as breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, or helplines
- Supporting them in their treatment goals and plans, such as helping them schedule appointments, reminding them to take their medication, or accompanying them to therapy sessions
- Celebrating their progress and achievements, such as praising them for their efforts, acknowledging their improvements, or rewarding them with something they enjoy
- Being alert for any signs of relapse or worsening, such as changes in their mood, behavior, or appearance, or expressions of hopelessness, despair, or sui**cidal thoughts
FAQ
What is a mental health crisis?
A mental health crisis is a situation where a person’s mental or emotional state puts them or others at risk of harm. It can be triggered by various factors, such as stress, trauma, substance abuse, or a mental disorder.
How can I help someone who is having a mental health crisis?
You can help someone who is having a mental health crisis by following these steps:
– Assess the level of risk and call 911 or your local emergency number if needed
– Provide emotional support and listen to them without judgment
– Seek professional help and encourage them to get treatment
Follow up and monitor their safety and recovery
How can I prevent a mental health crisis?
A:You can prevent a mental health crisis by taking care of your mental health and well-being. Some ways to do this include:
– Seeking help early if you notice any signs of mental distress or illness
– Following your treatment plan and taking your medication as prescribed
– Practicing healthy habits, such as eating well, sleeping enough, exercising regularly, and avoiding drugs and alcohol
– Managing your stress and coping with your emotions in positive ways, such as meditation, journaling, or hobbies
– Building a strong support network, such as family, friends, peers, or professionals
– Seeking help again if you feel overwhelmed or sui**cidal
Bottom Line
A mental health crisis is a serious and potentially life-threatening situation that requires immediate attention and intervention. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, you should act quickly and seek help.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can recognize and respond to a mental health crisis effectively and compassionately. Remember that you are not alone and that there is hope for recovery and healing from a mental health crisis.
The mental health crisis is not only affecting individuals, but also communities and society as a whole.
According to the American Psychological Association (2021), the U.S. spends more on mental health care than any other high-income country, but has poor outcomes compared to other countries. The APA calls for psychologists and other mental health professionals to act now to help people who need it and prevent a much more widespread crisis.
