4 Tips to Help With a Mental Health Crisis

By Alyse Kotyk

If you’re wondering how you can effectively handle a mental health crisis, it’s important to reach out for help and support. Here are some tips to keep in mind the next time you find yourself feeling acute mental health distress.

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  1. Create a Strategy

  When you’re feeling healthy, it’s a good idea to develop a strategy for when you’re in crisis. Work with a mental health professional on this as they will be able to offer suggestions that cater to your unique situation. These might include writing a list of people you can contact or ways to feel more calm and positive. Write down your strategy and keep it in an easily accessible place so that you know where it is when you’re in crisis.

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  2. Reach Out to Trusted Family or Friends

  If you don’t have a strategy in place, reaching out to a trusted friend or family member is a helpful first step. These people will often be the first ones to notice that you’re truly struggling – maybe even before you do! They can also help you contact outside help if you’re feeling uncomfortable or unable.

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  3. Call a Crisis Center or Hotline

  If your town has a local crisis center, this is a good place to call when you’re in a state of mental health emergency. Alternatively, calling a crisis hotline such as the [National Suicide Prevention Lifeline](http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ ) can be an excellent way to seek help when you’re unsure of where to turn.

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  4. Call 911

  Finally, if you don’t have the assistance you need and fear you are in danger of hurting yourself or others, call 911. Mental health professionals at a hospital can help you navigate through your crisis and avoid injury.