Learning how to dial 911 in an emergency and to stop, drop, and roll when on fire are safety measures taught from an early age. These foundational skills are essential for immediate physical safety and survival. We teach these skills to educate people on how to help themselves and others in critical situations. While these are extremely important, so is understanding how to identify and help someone experiencing a mental health crisis.

Mental health emergencies can be just as life-threatening as physical emergencies, yet they often go unrecognized and unaddressed. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) WISQARS Leading Causes of Death Reports, in 2021, suicide was the eleventh leading cause of death overall in the United States, claiming the lives of over 48,100 people. Suicide was the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10-14 and 25-34 and the third leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 15-24.

Mental health emergencies can be different for everyone. By following these steps recommended by the American Association of Suicidology, you can help those in need work through a mental health crisis:

  • Assess the situation: Ask the person what they are feeling and experiencing. Be aware of your surroundings. Try to remove any dangerous items such as weapons or medications. “Studies show that removing a distressed person’s access to firearms, prescription and over the counter medication and other means of harm greatly reduces their risk of death by suicide,” says Erin Dainer, MD, and Chair of Psychiatry at Mather Hospital.
  • Lend an ear: Listen to what the person has to say and communicate in a supportive, non-judgmental way. Stay calm and do more listening than talking. When discussing your concerns, stick to the facts and try not to blame or criticize.
  • Seek professional help: If the person is already seeing a mental health professional, encourage them to contact that person. If they are not already receiving treatment, offer to help them find a mental health provider, local support group or crisis resource line such as 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and 24-hour DASH Hotline & Crisis Care Center at 631-952-3333. Denise Driscoll, RN-BC CARN PMHNCNS-BC, NPP and AVP of Behavioral Health at Mather Hospital says, “It’s important to stay with your friend or family member until the crisis has ended and they have received appropriate mental health services whether it’s by speaking with their provider or going to the emergency department.”

Identifying a mental health crisis and reaching out for professional help when appropriate may save someone’s life. Just as we prioritize physical safety, it is imperative that we also prioritize mental well-being, creating a comprehensive approach to safety and health that encompasses both body and mind. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, follow these steps to get the care needed.

 

Resources:

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/suicide

https://suicidology.org/2023/04/10/how-to-help-someone-having-a-mental-health-crisis/

https://www.apa.org/topics/mental-health/help-emotional-crisis

https://www.fsl-li.org/dash-hotline-crisis-care-center-are-available-24-hours-a-day/