A mental health crisis is a sharp change, lasting days or weeks, in how someone is feeling as a result of their thoughts and feelings.
This usually happens suddenly and the person may not recognize what’s happening to them. They are very often scary for everyone involved, and people might find themselves struggling to know what to do.
It’s important that you don’t panic, as being overly stressed or trying too hard won’t help your loved one or yourself cope with their situation.
Understanding A Mental Health Crisis
When someone is in a mental health crisis, their thoughts and feelings are affecting their actions and behavior. They may not be able to think clearly or make good decisions for themselves or be able to act in ways that you’d usually expect.
Everyone has times when they feel sad or stressed, so it’s hard to tell if someone’s symptoms are within the normal range of ups and downs, or if something more serious is going on.
There’s no one way to describe what a mental health crisis feels like, as it can seem different for everyone involved.
What You Can Do To Support Them
Help them stay safe
It’s important to keep your loved one in a safe environment so that they don’t hurt themselves or others. You can help by keeping dangerous objects out of the way or getting professional help if you’re worried about them hurting themselves or someone else.
You may need to take them to a specific facility for some in-patient treatment. Companies like The Life Adjustment Team can help by providing mental health intensive case management Los Angeles, and there are a lot of these types of facilities around the world.
Take care of yourself and express how you are feeling
Remember, it’s okay to seek help for yourself at the same time as your loved one needs an outlet for help, it won’t make them feel like they are less of a person because they need support too. Ensure that you get the help and support you need while dealing with this crisis, but don’t forget to take care of yourself as well.
What Not To Do
You shouldn’t let their actions dictate the way you feel about them
Don’t try to help if they don’t agree with a plan you come up with. For example, if your loved one doesn’t want to go to the hospital or they won’t allow you to call 911 then don’t force that decision on them.
If they do agree and it seems like a good idea, then have faith that whatever happens will be okay. It’s not about doing what the other person wants, it’s about making the right decision for yourself, your family, and your loved ones.
A mental health crisis can affect your loved one’s ability to make decisions or remember things so they may be unable to care for themselves or you.
If they are in a mental health crisis don’t expect them to be able to function like their usual selves, and give them some space to get better.
To read more on topics like this, check out the Life Tips category
Leave a Reply