Emergencies

Mental Health Crisis — First Aid Guide

How to recognize and respond to a mental health crisis, including suicidal thoughts, severe panic, or psychosis, until professional help arrives.

3 min read

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

  1. Stay calm and ensure safety for both of you.
  2. Ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?”
    • Asking does not increase risk — it shows you care.
  3. Listen without judgment — avoid arguing, minimising, or offering quick fixes.
  4. Remove means of harm (medications, weapons) if it can be done safely.
  5. Call emergency services (000/911/112) if the person has a plan or is at immediate risk.
  6. 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

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.