Millions of people around the world live with mental health conditions. Mental health disorders like depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and anxiety can impact a person’s daily functioning and quality of life.
Many people live with chronic mental health conditions requiring treatment and ongoing support. In some cases, people with mental health conditions may experience new or worsening symptoms. Sometimes, these symptoms can be so severe that they require immediate attention.
A mental health crisis can occur for many reasons. It is important to know what to do if a loved one is experiencing a mental health emergency.
This article will explore how to recognize and manage a mental health crisis. You will learn:
- The signs of a mental health emergency
- What to do if a loved one needs emergency mental health interventions
- What happens in mental health treatment
- Where to find treatment and support for mental health conditions
If you or someone you love needs support to manage a mental illness, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at Renewed Light Mental Health to learn about our programs. You may also reach out to ask questions, verify insurance, or schedule an intake appointment.
What is a Mental Health Crisis?
Mental health crises are acute periods of emotional distress. A mental health crisis can put people with mental health conditions at risk of self-harm, suicide, and other dangers. They can also lead people to harm others.
People may experience a mental health emergency for a short period. People may also experience prolonged symptoms and instability. Mental health crises can be severe and life-threatening.
The primary features of a mental health emergency are:
- An inability to cope with daily life
- Overwhelming physical or psychological stress
- Impaired functioning
- Thoughts or behaviors that could lead to self-harm or put others at risk of harm
People may experience a mental health emergency as a result of a specific stressor or may have a crisis without a clear cause. Many people believe that untreated mental illness is the only cause of a crisis, but this simply isn’t the case. People without a diagnosed mental health disorder can experience a crisis.
Mental health crises can become life-threatening. Suicide is among the leading causes of death for teens and young adults ages 15-19. It is in the top nine causes of death for people aged 10-64.
It is critical to recognize the signs of a crisis and seek immediate help.
Signs of a Mental Health Crisis
A mental health crisis may occur in people with a diagnosed mental health condition and those without mental illness. It is critical to seek treatment right away if you notice a friend or family member exhibiting signs of a crisis.
Some signs of a mental health emergency include:
- Noticeable changes in mood or behaviors
- Being unable to care for self (not showering, washing clothes, cooking, cleaning, brushing teeth, etc)
- Inability to work, go to school, or manage typical daily responsibilities
- Having persistent feelings of sadness
- Intensifying anxiety or panic symptoms
- Isolating
- Angry outbursts, aggressive behaviors, or violence
- Psychotic symptoms (delusions or hallucinations)
- Paranoia
- Using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate
- Engaging in self-harm
- Thinking about or planning suicide
In some cases, it can be challenging to determine when someone needs more professional support. People with mental health conditions may live with these or other symptoms.
The National Mental Health Alliance (NAMI) advises people to pay attention to significant changes in thoughts, mood, and behaviors. These changes may indicate a mental health crisis.
What Should I Do if a Loved One is Having a Mental Health Crisis?
If you believe a loved one is experiencing a mental health emergency, take action right away. If
If you do not believe your loved one is a risk to themselves or others, you may offer to help them find treatment or support. First, it is essential to remain calm so that you can de-escalate your loved one. You can do this by:
- Using a calm voice
- Asking how to help
- Providing options instead of telling them what you will do
- Being patient
Reach out to your loved one’s primary care doctor or mental health professionals about your concerns. Tell them what you have noticed and ask for guidance.
In some cases, you may not have time to do these things. If you believe your loved one is at risk of harming themself or others, take immediate action. You can call or text 988 (suicide crisis lifeline) for information about the next steps you should take.
If your loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, you may also call 911 or take your loved one to your nearest emergency room. Only transport your loved one if it is safe for you to do so.
What Happens During Mental Health Treatment?
Mental health treatment can keep people safe during a mental health emergency. People follow a tailored treatment plan to stabilize their symptoms and develop an aftercare plan that provides ongoing support.
A mental health treatment plan typically includes:
- Assessments and screenings
- Clinical supervision in a secure environment
- Medical care and medications to manage symptoms
- Behavioral therapies and counseling
- Group therapy
- Education
- Holistic therapies like exercise, art therapy, mindfulness, and more
- Aftercare planning
People work with licensed mental health providers to address their symptoms and learn how to manage them for life. After completing inpatient care, many people continue to receive support in an outpatient mental health program.
Find Treatment Now
If you or a loved one needs support to manage a mental health condition, you are not alone. Contact the treatment specialists at Renewed Light Mental Health to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
