What Is a Mental Health Crisis?

Understanding mental health crises is essential for helping those in need. With the right knowledge, we can identify the signs, understand the causes and offer the appropriate support. By knowing what constitutes a mental health crisis, the signs to look out for and how to help someone experiencing a mental health crisis, it is possible to deescalate their condition and begin addressing the root of their mental health concerns.

Causes of a Mental Health Crisis

A mental health crisis occurs when a person’s state of mental health deteriorates to the point where they are unable to function in their daily life. This can manifest through extreme emotional distress, confusion or inability to manage daily tasks. A crisis can be triggered by various factors and can affect anyone, regardless of their mental health history.

Contributing factors

Understanding the causes can help in prevention and management. Factors contributing to a mental health crisis can be diverse and complex.

• Traumatic Events: Such as abuse, accidents or the loss of a loved one.
• Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress due to financial issues, work pressure or family problems.
• Substance Use: Drugs and alcohol can exacerbate mental health issues.

Pre-existing conditions

People with pre-existing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety disorders or bipolar disorder are often times more susceptible to experiencing a crisis.

Potential Effects of a Mental Health Crisis

A mental health crisis can lead to a range of severe and often debilitating effects on a person’s well-being. Recognizing these potential effects is vital for providing appropriate support and intervention during such challenging times.

1. Emotional Overload: The person may experience overwhelming emotions such as fear, anxiety or anger.
2. Impaired Functionality: They may struggle with everyday activities, work or relationships.
3. Risk of Harm: There might be a risk of harm to themselves or others, including suicidal thoughts or behavior.

Signs of a Mental Health Crisis

Identifying a mental health crisis early can make a significant difference in the outcome. Here are common signs to look for:

• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Changes in sleeping or eating patterns
• Neglect of personal hygiene
• Extreme mood swings
• Intense fear or worry
• Feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks
• Frequent headaches or stomachaches
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Fatigue or lack of energy

Mental Health Crisis Stabilization

Offering timely and appropriate support can help stabilize someone experiencing a mental health crisis. Here are steps you can take:

1. Stay Calm: Approach the situation with a calm and composed demeanor.
2. Listen Actively: Allow the person to express their feelings without judgment.
3. Think of Safety: If there is an immediate risk of harm, contact emergency services.
4. Encourage Professional Help: Suggest they see a mental health professional.
5. Be Present: Offer your presence and reassurance that they are not alone.
6. Create a Safe Environment: Reduce stressors in their environment and provide a sense of security.

Professional Mental Healthcare

Stabilization involves immediate interventions aimed at de-escalating the situation and providing a nurturing environment for recovery.

1. Assessment: A mental health professional evaluates the situation to recommend an appropriate course of action.
2. Crisis Intervention: This may include counseling, medication or hospitalization if necessary.
3. Follow-up Care: Arranging for ongoing support and therapy to prevent future crises.

When to seek professional help

It’s crucial to know when to involve professionals to help with a person’s safety and well-being. Some warning signs that it may be time to seek professional help include:

• Persistent thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Severe inability to function in daily life
• Episodes of psychosis or losing touch with reality

Knowing Can Make a Difference

Understanding what constitutes a mental health crisis and knowing how to respond can make a significant difference. By recognizing the signs, understanding the causes and knowing how to offer support, we can help those in need navigate through their crisis and work towards recovery. Remember, it’s always okay to reach out for help, and there is support available for people experiencing a crisis as well as those assisting them.

By spreading awareness and education, we can contribute to a more understanding and supportive society for those facing mental health challenges.

Friends Hospital in Philadelphia has a crisis response center specifically designed to assist adults who are experiencing an acute mental health crisis. To learn more or schedule a level of care assessment, call 800-889-0548. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and walk-ins are always welcome.

If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, CALL 988 or seek the nearest emergency room.