Emergencies
Mental Health Crisis — First Aid Guide
2025-09-13
Intro
Mental health crises can be just as urgent as physical emergencies.
A crisis may involve suicidal thoughts, self-harm, severe panic, or psychosis. Quick recognition and calm support can keep the person safe until professional help arrives.
Key Points
- Take all suicidal thoughts seriously — ask directly if they are thinking of suicide.
- Stay with the person — do not leave them alone if they are at risk of harm.
- Call emergency services if there is immediate danger.
- Provide calm reassurance and remove means of self-harm if safe to do so.
- Encourage connection with professional or crisis services.
Warning Signs of Crisis
- Talking about wanting to die or self-harm.
- Expressing hopelessness or feeling like a burden.
- Severe panic or anxiety attacks that do not settle.
- Extreme withdrawal, confusion, or disorganized thinking.
- Hallucinations or delusions (psychosis).
First Aid Actions
- Stay calm and ensure safety for both of you.
- Ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?”
- Asking does not increase risk — it shows you care.
- Listen without judgment — avoid arguing, minimising, or offering quick fixes.
- Remove means of harm (medications, weapons) if it can be done safely.
- Call emergency services (000/911/112) if the person has a plan or is at immediate risk.
- If not urgent: encourage contacting a GP, psychologist, or crisis line.
After the Crisis
- Encourage follow-up with a doctor or mental health professional.
- Offer ongoing support — check in regularly.
- Respect confidentiality, but do not keep suicidal thoughts a secret if safety is at risk.
FAQ
Q: What if I say the wrong thing?
A: Being present and compassionate matters more than perfect words.
Q: Should I leave if they tell me to go?
A: If you believe they are unsafe, stay nearby and call for professional help.
Q: Can panic attacks be life-threatening?
A: Panic itself is not usually dangerous, but it can feel terrifying and may mask other emergencies. If unsure, seek urgent medical review.
Further Reading
- Mental Health First Aid International
- NHS — When to use mental health helplines
- Mental Health First Aid Australia
Related Guides
- Emergencies — Guide Hub
- Suicide Prevention and Support
- Mental Health First Aid — The Basics
- Depression: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
- Anxiety Disorders
Get Help Now
If you or someone you know is in immediate crisis:
- United States: Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
- United Kingdom: Call 116 123 (Samaritans)
- Australia: Call 13 11 14 (Lifeline)
- Canada: Call or text 988 (Suicide Crisis Helpline)
If outside these regions, check local emergency numbers. You are not alone — support is available.
⚠️ Educational only; not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always call emergency services if someone is at immediate risk of harm.
- #mental health
- #crisis
- #suicide prevention
- #emergency
- #first aid