According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), when mental illness is present, the potential for a crisis is never far from mind. Crisis episodes related to mental illness can feel incredibly overwhelming. There is the initial shock, followed by a flood of questions. To begin with: What can I do? A mental health crisis can be a challenging and overwhelming experience for anyone. It can occur when an individual’s mental health condition worsens or when they face a significant life event that causes emotional distress. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, it’s essential to take immediate steps to manage the situation effectively.
Like any other health crisis, it’s important to address a mental health emergency quickly and effectively. With mental health conditions, crises can be difficult to predict because, often, there are no warning signs. Crises can occur even when treatment plans are followed and mental health professionals are involved, Unfortunately, unpredictability is the nature of mental illness.
Here are some steps that can help you handle a mental health crisis:
- Stay Calm: If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, it’s essential to remain calm and avoid panicking. Take a deep breath and try to stay focused on the situation at hand. Remember that many people have successfully navigated through mental health crises before, and you can do the same.
- Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis. Reach out to a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or therapist, for guidance and support. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or go to the nearest emergency room. The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in crisis.
- Create a Safe Space: If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, it’s essential to create a safe space. Remove any potential triggers or hazards from the environment and make sure the individual feels comfortable and supported. Encourage them to express themselves and validate their emotions. Be sure to properly secure any weapons, all medication and cleaning supplies.
- Practice Self-Care: If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis or if you are supporting someone in crisis, make sure you practice self-care. This could include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in physical activity. Remember that taking care of yourself is essential to your mental health and well-being.
- Develop Coping Strategies: Developing coping strategies can help to manage a mental health crisis effectively. Some coping strategies could include mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, journaling, or talking to a trusted friend or family member. Remember that different strategies work for different people, so try different approaches until you find what works best for you.
- Follow-Up Care: After a mental health crisis, it’s essential to follow-up with a mental health professional. This could involve attending therapy sessions, taking medication, or making lifestyle changes to manage your mental health condition. Remember that recovery is a journey, and it’s essential to take small steps every day to maintain your mental health and well-being.
Handling a mental health crisis can be challenging, but with the right support and guidance, it’s possible to navigate through it successfully. Finding or being supportive to an individual experiencing a mental health crisis is one of the first steps you can take. Be supportive and don’t dismiss or brush off statements, especially by children.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or go to the nearest emergency room.
This article is provided by Dr. Ralph Kueche (Child Psychologist). Dr. Kuechle is a Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologist who specializes in treating children and their families who may be struggling with mood and behavioral issues. Learn more about Dr. Kuechle.
