Facing a mental health crisis can be overwhelming, whether it’s for oneself or a loved one. Knowing how to respond can make a crucial difference in the immediate situation. Here’s a guide on what to do when a crisis arises:

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first step is to maintain composure. Your calm demeanor can help stabilize the situation. Assess the severity of the crisis:

• Identify Immediate Risks: Determine if there are any immediate threats to safety, such as self-harm or harm to others.
• Evaluate the Need for Professional Help: Decide if emergency services or a mental health professional is needed.

2. Provide Reassurance and Support

In a crisis, emotional support is vital. Your approach can help in de-escalating the situation:

• Listen Actively: Show empathy and listen without judgment. Validate their feelings even if you don’t fully understand them.
• Acknowledge Their Reality: Recognize their experience as real and significant, even if you have a different perspective. This can help them feel heard and valued.
• Offer Reassurance: Assure them that help is available and that they are not alone in this.

3. Develop a Safety Plan

A well-thought-out safety plan is crucial for managing the immediate crisis:

• Create a Crisis Plan: Establish clear steps for what to do if the situation worsens. Include emergency contacts and safe places to go.
• Remove Harmful Objects: If possible, ensure that any objects that could be used for self-harm are removed from the immediate area.
• Provide Resources: Share information about local crisis services, helplines, and support networks.

Examples of Safety Plans

1. Emergency Contact List
   • List of Contacts: Include phone numbers of trusted family members, friends, and mental health professionals.
   • Emergency Services: Add the number for local emergency services (911 or equivalent) for immediate threats.
2. Safe Spaces
   • Safe Locations: Identify places where the individual can go if they feel unsafe at home or in their current environment.
   • Safe People: Note names of individuals who can offer immediate support and a calming presence.
3. Crisis Strategies
   • Immediate Actions: Outline specific actions to take if feeling overwhelmed, such as deep breathing exercises or grounding techniques.
   • Distraction Techniques: Include activities that can help distract from the crisis, such as listening to music, taking a walk, or engaging in a hobby.
4. Removal of Harmful Items
   • Clear Environment: Ensure that any items that could be used for self-harm are removed or secured.
   • Access Control: Limit access to medications or other potentially dangerous substances.

4. Seek Professional Help if Needed

Sometimes, professional intervention is necessary to address the crisis effectively:

• Contact Emergency Services: If there is an imminent risk of harm, call emergency services immediately.
• Reach Out to Mental Health Professionals: Contact a mental health professional or crisis counselor for further guidance and support.
• Utilize Crisis Hotlines: Many regions have dedicated crisis hotlines that offer immediate support and resources.

Crisis Hotlines

1. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.)
   • Phone Number: 988
   • Description: Provides 24/7 support for people in distress or crisis.
2. Crisis Text Line
   • Text Number: Text HOME to 741741
   • Description: Offers free, confidential support 24/7 via text message.
3. SAMHSA’s National Helpline (U.S.)
   • Phone Number: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
   • Description: Provides information and resources for mental health and substance use disorders.
4. Kids Help Phone (Canada)
   • Phone Number: 1-800-668-6868
   • Text Number: Text CONNECT to 686868
   • Description: Offers 24/7 support for youth in Canada dealing with mental health and crisis situations.
5. Lifeline (Australia)
   • Phone Number: 13 11 14
   • Description: Provides crisis support and suicide prevention services 24/7 in Australia.
6. The National Helpline for Domestic Violence (UK)
   • Phone Number: 0808 2000 247
   • Description: Offers confidential support and advice for those experiencing domestic violence.

5. Follow Up and Provide Ongoing Support

After the immediate crisis is managed, continuous support is essential:

• Check-In Regularly: Continue to offer support and check in on their well-being. Consistent follow-up can aid in their recovery process.