What Is Electroconvulsive Therapy Ect
What Is Electroconvulsive Therapy Ect
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Where to Get Help During a Mental Health Crisis
You can help your loved one during a mental health crisis by creating a safe environment, listening to them and helping them connect with resources like the local crisis hotline.
People can experience a crisis for many reasons. What might not seem like a crisis to you might be a crisis for someone else.
Call 911
A person in a mental health crisis is experiencing an urgent, heightened state of distress that poses a threat to their own well-being or the safety of others. They may be unable to think clearly and struggle with their emotions, which can lead to violence or self-harm.
During a crisis, the first step is to call 911. This is the best way to ensure that your loved one will be taken care of quickly and safely. Explain that their thoughts and behaviors are putting them at risk for injury or death and that you believe they need emergency treatment.
It is also important to let the dispatcher know that the person in question has a mental illness, so officers can respond with de-escalation tactics in mind. They will likely ask you to stay nearby, which can help keep the situation from escalating on both sides.
Call 211
For those in a mental health crisis, or who are concerned about someone else who may be, there is help available. The first step is calling 988.
A “crisis” can mean a sudden onset of symptoms, thoughts or behavior that put someone at risk of harming themselves or others. Anyone can experience a mental health crisis, including those without a diagnosed mental illness.
Calling 211 connects people to information and referral services for health, human and social service organizations. This service is free and available in all areas of the country. It is also the phone number to call if you are concerned about someone who is exhibiting signs of depression or anxiety.
Talk to a Psychiatrist
A mental health crisis is a time of intense, upsetting feelings or behaviors. It can include feeling extremely anxious, having panic attacks, self-harming and even thinking about suicide.
The best way to handle a mental health crisis is to talk to a therapist or doctor. If your loved one has a family doctor, psychiatrist or nurse practitioner they can help. You can also ask them to call a mobile crisis team for you or your loved one, which are police officers with special training in handling mental health emergencies.
They are trained professionals who approach the situation with empathy and understanding. They are also bound by confidentiality laws and cannot share your information with anyone without your permission. They can reassure you that you are not crazy and that your condition is treatable. They can also offer medication if needed. Many people find that it is the combination of therapy and medication they need to get well.
Talk to a Counselor
A mental health crisis can be overwhelming for someone in need. They may become dangerous to themselves or others, and their coping skills might not work anymore. This mental wellness is a critical time to seek help and support.
A person can experience a mental health crisis for many reasons, such as a severe personal tragedy, like the loss of a loved one, financial strain, or relationship issues. Chronic medical conditions, including anxiety and depression, can also lead to a crisis.
It is best to talk to a counselor during a mental health crisis so they can provide immediate help and support. If you know a counselor, save their number in your phone so they can be reached when needed. They can offer advice and referrals to other resources, like a mental health crisis team, a hospital or a crisis house.
Talk to a Friend
If your friend is in a mental health crisis, it’s important to listen and believe them. It may be difficult to understand what they are going through, such as hallucinations, delusions or other disturbing behaviors.
Your friend might be resistant to the idea of seeking treatment, especially if they have negative views about therapy. Reassure them that treatment is available and effective.
You can also suggest a warmline, which is a free, confidential service staffed by trained peers who have experienced mental health struggles. These peer professionals can support people who are in a crisis and help them get connected with services they need. Many national advocacy and professional organizations offer tools to find a provider, including warmlines. For example, Connections Health Solutions provides resources like a list of providers and an online crisis response center locator.