Mental Health First Aid: How to Support Someone in Crisis
The Importance of Mental Health First Aid
Mental health crises can happen to anyone, at any time. Just as we are taught basic physical first aid to help someone who is injured, it is equally important to know how to offer support to someone experiencing a mental health crisis. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) equips individuals with the knowledge and tools to recognize signs of mental distress, provide immediate support, and guide the person toward professional help.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how to recognize a mental health crisis, the steps involved in providing mental health first aid, and how to offer effective support in such situations. At The New Hope Mental Health Clinic, we are committed to promoting mental health awareness and providing resources for those navigating crises, ensuring people feel empowered to help others in need.
Understanding Mental Health Crises
A mental health crisis can take many forms, including severe anxiety, panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, substance misuse, or psychosis. These crises can arise suddenly or gradually escalate and often occur when an individual feels overwhelmed by their emotions or life circumstances.
Common Types of Mental Health Crises:
Panic Attacks: A sudden, intense feeling of fear or discomfort that can mimic physical symptoms like a heart attack.
Suicidal Thoughts: Persistent thoughts of self-harm or suicide, often stemming from depression, trauma, or other emotional pain.
Psychosis: A state in which an individual loses touch with reality, often experiencing hallucinations, delusions, or paranoia.
Substance Abuse: Using drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions or situations.
Severe Anxiety or Depression: Emotional states that can lead to feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or being unable to function.
Recognizing these crises is the first step toward providing effective mental health first aid.
Recognizing the Signs of a Mental Health Crisis
To support someone in crisis, it is crucial to recognize the signs that they may be struggling with their mental health. While symptoms vary, certain behavioral and emotional changes often indicate that someone may need help.
Behavioral Signs:
- Withdrawing from social activities, friends, or family
- Drastic changes in behavior, such as mood swings, aggression, or irritability
- Talking about feeling hopeless, worthless, or overwhelmed
- Engaging in reckless or self-destructive behavior
- Expressing thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Physical Signs:
- Fatigue or extreme changes in energy levels
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Emotional Signs:
- Intense anxiety, fear, or panic
- Feelings of sadness, guilt, or emptiness
- Sudden bursts of anger or extreme irritability
Detachment from reality or hallucinations
The Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE)
Mental Health First Aid uses an action plan known as ALGEE, which outlines the steps you can take to support someone in crisis. These five steps ensure that you provide empathetic, practical support while guiding the person toward professional help.
A: Approach, Assess, and Assist with Any Crisis
The first step is to approach the person calmly and assess the situation. Be mindful of your body language and tone, as individuals in crisis may be easily startled or defensive. Ensure that you are in a safe environment where you can talk openly and without distractions.
Assess for Safety: If you suspect that someone is in immediate danger (e.g., they are suicidal or harming themselves), ensure they are safe. If necessary, seek emergency help immediately.
Engage with Empathy: Let the person know that you are there to help, and approach them with kindness. Avoid judgment or criticism, as this could escalate their distress.
L: Listen Nonjudgmentally
Listening is one of the most important aspects of mental health first aid. People in crisis often feel misunderstood or unheard, so offering a compassionate ear can make a significant difference.
Be Fully Present: Give the person your full attention. Avoid interrupting, offering unsolicited advice, or minimizing their feelings.
Validate Their Feelings: Let them know that their feelings are valid, and it’s okay to express what they’re going through. For example, you could say, “I can see that you’re really struggling right now, and I’m here to listen.”
At The New Hope Mental Health Clinic, we emphasize the importance of nonjudgmental listening, as this allows individuals to express themselves without fear of stigma or shame.
G: Give Reassurance and Information
Providing reassurance can help alleviate the person’s fear or confusion during a mental health crisis. Let them know that help is available and that they are not alone.
Offer Hope: Reassure them that recovery is possible and that seeking help is a sign of strength. Avoid making promises that you can’t keep, such as saying, “Everything will be okay,” but focus on the fact that there are resources and professionals who can support them.
Share Helpful Information: If appropriate, share information about mental health resources, such as helplines, support groups, or therapy options. Avoid overwhelming them with too much information at once.
E: Encourage Appropriate Professional Help
Encouraging professional help is a crucial part of mental health first aid. While offering support as a friend or loved one is important, professional intervention is often necessary to ensure long-term healing and safety.
Suggest Seeking Therapy or Counseling: Encourage the person to seek professional mental health services, such as therapy or counseling. At The New Hope Mental Health Clinic, we offer tailored support for individuals in crisis, helping them recover and regain stability.
Refer to Crisis Services: If the person is in immediate danger, encourage them to contact emergency services or go to a hospital. Crisis hotlines, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, are also invaluable resources.
E: Encourage Self-Help and Other Support Strategies
While professional help is essential, self-help strategies can also play a role in managing mental health. Encourage the person to engage in activities that promote well-being, such as:
Practicing Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, mindfulness, or meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Maintaining a Support System: Encourage them to reach out to friends or family members who can provide emotional support.
Engaging in Physical Activity: Exercise can have a positive impact on mental health by reducing Anger and boosting mood.
Tips for Offering Mental Health First Aid
Providing mental health first aid can be challenging, especially if you’ve never encountered a crisis before. Here are some additional tips to help you offer effective support:
Stay Calm and Grounded: Your calm demeanor can help the person in crisis feel safer and more in control.
Avoid Stigmatizing Language: Use language that is respectful and nonjudgmental. Avoid labels such as “crazy” or “unstable.”
Respect Their Autonomy: While you may want to “fix” the situation, respect the person’s right to make decisions about their own care.
Know Your Limits: Recognize when you need to seek professional help or step back. It’s okay to acknowledge that you may not have all the answers.
When to Seek Immediate Help
In some cases, a mental health crisis may require immediate intervention. If the person is at risk of harming themselves or others, it’s essential to seek emergency help.
Signs that Require Immediate Attention:
- Suicidal thoughts or plans
- Self-harm behaviors
- Severe disorientation or confusion
- Violent or aggressive behavior
- Complete withdrawal from reality (psychosis)
In these cases, contact emergency services, a crisis hotline, or take the person to the nearest emergency room for immediate support.
Conclusion: The Power of Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid can be a lifeline for individuals in crisis, providing them with the immediate support they need to stay safe and begin their journey toward recovery. By recognizing the signs of mental distress, listening nonjudgmentally, and encouraging professional help, you can make a profound difference in someone’s life.
At The New Hope Mental Health Clinic, we offer comprehensive mental health services designed to help individuals in crisis regain stability and reclaim their emotional well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for support.