Isabella Carter
A mental health crisis or emergency is a situation where an individual's feelings and behaviours can lead to self-harm or harm to others, or put them at risk of being unable to care for themselves or function healthily in the community. It is a state of heightened distress that poses an immediate risk to an individual's well-being or the safety of those around them. Crises can develop gradually or occur suddenly, and they can be overwhelming for the person experiencing them. They may feel a loss of control and have difficulty coping with their feelings. It is important to recognise the signs of a mental health crisis to provide support and prevent tragic outcomes, such as suicide, which is a leading cause of death among teens and young adults.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A situation in which a person's actions, feelings, and behaviors can lead to them hurting themselves or others, or put them at risk of being unable to care for themselves or function in the community in a healthy manner. |
| Severity | Crises may be life-threatening or non-life-threatening, but both require immediate support. |
| Common causes | Stress, loss of a loved one, trauma, major life changes, intense depression, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, panic, etc. |
| Warning signs | Difficulty in functioning, inability to take care of personal hygiene, feelings of fear, being overwhelmed, or out of control. |
| Action | Call 911 or 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) in the US. If outside the US, check Befrienders Worldwide or Suicide Stop for your country's crisis hotline. |
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What You'll Learn
Warning signs and triggers
A mental health crisis can be triggered by a variety of factors, and it is important to recognize the warning signs to provide support and prevent the situation from escalating. The warning signs can vary from person to person, and they may present differently or have multiple signs at once. Here are some common warning signs and triggers associated with a mental health crisis:
- Emotional distress and negative emotions : Feelings of intense fear, overwhelming negative emotions, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, panic, and a sense of being out of control are common indicators of a mental health crisis.
- Difficulty functioning and self-care : Individuals may experience challenges in carrying out daily tasks, such as getting out of bed, going to work, or maintaining personal hygiene. They may also struggle with self-care, including taking care of their physical and mental health needs.
- Behavioral changes and threats of self-harm : Sudden changes in behavior, such as increased aggression, social withdrawal, or self-harmful actions, can be warning signs. Any threats or attempts of suicide or self-harm are considered a mental health crisis and require immediate attention.
- Stress and traumatic events : Heightened stress levels, exposure to trauma, or experiencing a significant life change, such as the loss of a loved one, can trigger a mental health crisis.
- Underlying mental health conditions : Untreated or pre-existing mental health conditions can contribute to a crisis. However, it is important to note that a mental health crisis can also occur in individuals without a diagnosed mental health condition.
- Feelings of being overwhelmed and loss of control : During a mental health crisis, individuals may feel overwhelmed by their emotions and a sense of losing control. They may struggle to cope with their feelings and find it difficult to reach out for help.
If you or someone you know is exhibiting these warning signs, it is crucial to seek help. Reach out to trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals. Additionally, crisis hotlines, such as the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988 in the US), provide 24/7 support and resources. Remember, seeking help is a brave and commendable step towards managing a mental health crisis effectively.
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Risk factors and causes
A mental health crisis or emergency can be caused by a wide range of factors and situations. It is important to note that the reasons for a mental health crisis are unique to each individual, and there is no comprehensive list of risk factors. However, some common factors and causes will be discussed below.
Firstly, sudden, life-changing events such as natural disasters, the death of a loved one, or traumatic experiences can trigger a mental health crisis. These events can cause intense emotions such as fear, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, or panic, which may lead to an individual feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope. Additionally, gradual behaviour changes that develop over time can also contribute to the onset of a crisis.
Secondly, stress in various areas of life, including home, school, work, or other environments, can be a significant risk factor. Heightened isolation, loneliness, and limited access to physical and mental healthcare services may also play a role in an individual's mental health crisis. Financial or non-financial barriers to healthcare can exacerbate feelings of stress and hopelessness, making it difficult for individuals to manage their mental health effectively.
Furthermore, underlying mental health conditions can increase the risk of a crisis. However, it is important to note that not all individuals experiencing a mental health crisis have a pre-existing diagnosis. Anyone, regardless of age or background, can experience a crisis. Untreated mental health conditions can indeed lead to a crisis, but it is a misconception that this is the only cause. Individuals following a treatment plan can also experience a mental health crisis due to various factors.
Additionally, common crisis emotions and feelings of being overwhelmed, out of control, or unable to cope can contribute to the onset of a crisis. An individual may feel that their usual coping mechanisms are no longer effective, and they may struggle to identify options for getting help. This sense of losing control and the inability to manage overwhelming emotions can further exacerbate the crisis.
Lastly, suicide and self-harm ideation or attempts are significant risk factors and consequences of a mental health crisis. According to recent studies, suicide is the second leading cause of death among teens and young adults in the US, aged 10-34. Furthermore, of those with major depression, an average of 59.8% did not receive mental health treatment. This highlights the urgent need to address mental health crises and provide support to individuals at risk.
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Immediate actions and interventions
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, it is important to take immediate action to ensure safety and well-being. Here are some steps to follow:
Assess the Situation
Firstly, it is crucial to assess the seriousness and immediacy of the situation. Determine if the person is in danger of harming themselves or others. Look for warning signs such as suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or aggressive behaviour. Trust your instincts and don't ignore your concerns.
Remove Yourself from Danger
If you feel unsafe at any point, it is important to remove yourself from the situation. Your safety is a priority. Once you are in a secure location, you can proceed to call for help. Remember that a person in crisis may not be in control of their actions, so removing yourself can benefit both you and them.
Call for Professional Help
If the situation is life-threatening or the person is at risk of harming themselves or others, call emergency services, such as 911 in the US, or the local emergency number in your country. Request a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officer or a mental health professional if possible. Provide detailed information about the situation, including any weapons involved and your relationship to the person in crisis.
Reach Out to Trusted Professionals
If you don't feel there is immediate danger, reach out to a trusted mental health professional such as a psychiatrist, therapist, or case manager, especially those familiar with the person's history. They can provide valuable advice and guidance on the next steps. If the person already works with healthcare providers, contact them for support and follow any written plan of action for mental health crises.
Utilise Crisis Hotlines
If you need immediate support and are unsure of your options, call or text crisis hotlines such as the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988 in the US). These hotlines provide 24/7 assistance and can offer advice and crisis services. They are a valuable resource for anyone experiencing a mental health emergency or crisis.
Remember, seeking help during a mental health crisis is brave and commendable. Don't hesitate to reach out and utilise the support available to navigate this challenging time effectively.
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Support and treatment options
If you or someone close to you is experiencing a mental health crisis, there are several support and treatment options available. Recognising the signs of a mental health crisis is the first step in seeking help. Common crisis emotions include feeling very afraid, overwhelmed by negative emotions, and/or out of control. It's important to note that not all crises present the same signs, and they can develop over time or occur suddenly.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, know that you are not alone. Help is available, and seeking it is a courageous step. You can start by reaching out to someone you trust, such as a friend or family member, who can provide emotional support and help you navigate the next steps. Additionally, you can call crisis hotlines, such as the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 (available 24/7), or text or chat with them online. These services are confidential and provide immediate assistance and guidance. If you have a mental health professional, you can reach out to them during their working hours or use their emergency contact information.
In cases where there is an immediate danger to yourself or others, do not hesitate to call emergency services, such as 911 in the US, and request a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officer or equivalent in your country. Inform the dispatcher about the nature of the emergency, including any weapons involved and your relationship to the person in crisis. If possible, also inform them about any direct threats made and potential triggers that could escalate the situation. Remember that your safety comes first, so if you feel unsafe at any point, remove yourself from the situation and then call for help.
If the situation is not life-threatening, there are alternative options to emergency rooms and hospitals. You can reach out to local mental health organisations, community mental health centres, psychiatric treatment facilities, or your therapist, doctor, or psychiatrist for an assessment and ongoing care. These professionals can provide support and guidance tailored to your needs. Additionally, self-care techniques and coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and grounding exercises, can help manage anxiety and stress during a crisis. Remember, seeking help is a positive step towards healing and recovery.
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Prevention and management strategies
Mental health crises can be scary and stressful situations for both the person experiencing the crisis and those around them. While they can be challenging to navigate, there are strategies to help prevent and manage these situations effectively. Here are some detailed instructions to help you prepare for and address mental health emergencies:
Recognise the Signs
Firstly, it's essential to be able to identify the signs of a mental health crisis. These signs can vary from person to person, but some common indicators include difficulty functioning, challenges with personal care and hygiene, intense emotions such as fear, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, or panic, and feelings of being overwhelmed or out of control. Behavioural changes can also be indicative, such as a person acting in a way that may harm themselves or others or indicating that they are unable to care for themselves.
Prepare in Advance
If the person you care about has a history of mental health issues or a treatment plan, familiarise yourself with their written plan of action for mental health crises. Knowing their preferences and what has helped them in the past can be invaluable during an episode. Encourage them to seek ongoing support from mental health professionals, who can provide tailored advice and interventions.
Stay Calm and Reassure
When a person is experiencing a mental health crisis, it is crucial to remain calm and reassuring. Let them know that you care, that they are not alone, and that you are there to help and protect them. Use a calm and even tone of voice, make direct eye contact, and employ kind body language. Remember that they may feel overwhelmed and unable to cope, so your support and reassurance can make a significant difference.
Seek Professional Help
Do not hesitate to seek professional help when needed. If the situation is life-threatening or if the person is an immediate danger to themselves or others, call emergency services (911 in the US) and specifically request a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officer or equivalent if possible. Provide detailed information about the nature of the emergency, including any weapons involved and your relationship to the person in crisis. If there is no immediate danger, consider contacting a psychiatrist, therapist, case manager, or another professional familiar with the person's history for advice.
Utilise Support Services
In addition to emergency services, there are various support services available to help manage and prevent mental health crises. These include crisis hotlines such as the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988 in the US), local mental health organisations, support groups, counselling services, and outpatient and telehealth options. These services can provide valuable assistance and connect you with mental health professionals in your community.
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Frequently asked questions
A mental health crisis or emergency is when an individual is a danger to themselves or others and needs immediate help. It involves an urgent, heightened state of distress that poses an immediate risk to an individual’s well-being or the safety of those around them. Crises may develop over time or occur suddenly, and the signs can vary from person to person.
The signs of a mental health crisis vary from person to person. However, common signs include difficulty functioning, such as getting out of bed, going to work, or performing daily tasks, and challenges with self-care, such as maintaining personal hygiene. Other signs may include feeling very afraid, overwhelmed by negative emotions, or out of control.
If someone is in immediate danger or the situation is life-threatening, call 911 or your local emergency number and request a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officer or equivalent. Provide detailed information about the situation, including any weapons involved and your relationship to the person in crisis. If there is no immediate danger, you can also reach out to a psychiatrist, therapist, or another professional familiar with the person's history.
