Mental health is just as important as physical health, but when someone experiences an internal health extremity, knowing what to do next can feel inviting. Feting the signs of an internal health exigency and understanding how to get the right support can be life- saving. Whether you are floundering yourself or concerned about someone differently, this companion will walk you through when and how to seek help.
What Is a Mental Health Crisis?
A mental health crisis happens when someone’s emotional or psychological state becomes overwhelming to the point that they can no longer function safely. A crisis is acute and often immediate, unlike daily stress or sadness. A crisis could be a person thinking about suicide, having a panic attack, experiencing emotional collapse, or experiencing psychosis.
In these instances, immediate care is essential. Crisis intervention is necessary to prevent harm and bring stability to the person’s mental state.
Common Signs of a Mental Health Crisis
Understanding the signs can help you act before things spiral out of control. Here are some warning signals to watch for:
- Talking about suicide or self-harm
- Sudden withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
- Extreme mood swings or violent behavior
- Incoherent speech or confusion
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Overwhelming anxiety or panic attacks
- Substance abuse that worsens mental symptoms
- Neglecting personal hygiene or safety
These symptoms may vary from person to person. Still, if any of them appear suddenly or become intense, it could be a sign of a mental health emergency.
What to Do During a Mental Health Crisis
If you or someone else is showing signs of a mental health crisis, taking immediate steps is vital:
1. Ensure Immediate Safety
If someone is at risk of harming themselves or others, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. Emergency mental services are trained to handle these situations. Don’t try to handle a severe crisis alone.
2. Stay Calm and Supportive
Whether it’s you or someone else in crisis, stay as calm as possible. If you’re helping someone else, speak gently and reassure them that help is available. Avoid arguing or trying to “fix” the situation immediately.
3. Use Mental Health Resources
Contact a local mental health helpline or crisis hotline. These services provide immediate support and can connect you to further help. Examples include:
- Suicide prevention hotlines
- Crisis text lines
- 24/7 mental health support centers
These resources often offer confidential advice and can guide you toward the next steps.
When to Seek Professional Help
It’s essential to understand that you don’t need to wait for a full-blown crisis to seek professional help for mental illness. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.
Consider speaking with a mental health professional if you experience:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiety
- Trouble sleeping, eating, or concentrating
- Withdrawal from people or activities you used to enjoy
- Thoughts of harming yourself, even if not acted on
- Overwhelming stress or burnout that doesn’t go away
How to Get Help for Mental Health
Here are some ways to access mental health support:
1. Talk to Your Primary Care Provider
Many people begin by speaking with a doctor who can rule out physical causes and refer you to a specialist.
2. Reach Out to a Therapist or Counselor
Licensed mental health professionals like psychologists and therapists are trained to help you work through emotional distress, trauma, or anxiety. Whether you need talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or another approach, a therapist can guide you.
3. Look Into Crisis Counseling
If you’re going through a traumatic event such as the loss of a loved one, relationship issues, or sudden job loss, crisis counseling offers short-term support and coping strategies.
4. Use Online Mental Health Services
Online therapy platforms are now widely available, offering convenient ways to get support from home. These platforms can be especially helpful when you need quick access to care.
5. Seek Community Support
Local mental health organizations often offer group therapy, peer support programs, or educational resources. These services can help you feel less isolated and more connected.
Mental Health Support for Loved Ones
If you’re worried about someone else, knowing how to support them during a mental health crisis is just as important:
- Listen without judgment. Sometimes just being there is enough.
- Encourage them to get professional help. Offer to help them find a therapist or call a support line.
- Avoid minimizing their feelings. Phrases like “snap out of it” or “just think positive” can make things worse.
- Stay involved. Continue checking in on them after the crisis has passed.
Your support can make a significant difference in someone’s recovery journey.
Long-Term Strategies to Support Mental Wellness
While emergencies need immediate action, long-term care is key to preventing future crises. Here are some strategies to maintain mental well-being:
- Regular therapy or counseling sessions
- Mindfulness practices like meditation or journaling
- Building a strong social support network
- Maintaining a balanced diet and exercise routine
- Avoiding alcohol and drug misuse
- Getting enough sleep
- Establishing a daily routine
Developing coping skills and having a wellness plan in place helps reduce the risk of future emotional breakdowns or relapses.
Final Thoughts
Mental health crises can happen to anyone. Recognizing the signs early, knowing how to seek help, and accessing appropriate resources can make a world of difference. Whether you’re in crisis or supporting someone else, remember that you’re not alone.
