Crisis Prevention

What is a Mental Health Crisis?

A mental health crisis is any situation in which a person’s behavior puts them at risk of harming themselves or others, or prevents them from functioning effectively in the community. Common signs include:

• Severe mood swings or uncontrollable emotions
• Threats or attempts of self-harm or harm to others
• Psychotic episodes, such as hallucinations or delusions
• Extreme agitation or panic attacks

Why Prevention is Important

Preventing a crisis can reduce the risk of harm, decrease the need for emergency interventions, and improve the overall well-being of your loved one. It also helps maintain a stable and supportive environment.

Educate Yourself

• Learn About the Condition:
  Understand the symptoms, triggers, and typical crisis scenarios associated with your loved one’s mental health condition.
• Stay Informed:
  Keep up-to-date with the latest treatments and management strategies. Attend workshops, read books, and join support groups.

Establish Open Communication

• Foster Trust:
  Build a relationship based on trust and openness. Encourage your loved one to share their feelings and concerns.
• Listen Actively:
  Practice active listening by giving your full attention and showing empathy.

Create a Supportive Environment

• Routine and Structure:
  Establish a daily routine that includes regular meals, exercise, and sleep. Consistency can provide a sense of stability.
• Safe Space:
  Ensure that the living environment is safe. Remove or secure potentially harmful items, such as sharp objects or medications.

Identify Triggers and Warning Signs

• Recognize Triggers:
  Identify situations, activities, or stressors that can trigger a crisis. Work with your loved one to avoid or manage these triggers.
• Monitor Warning Signs:
  Be alert to changes in behavior, mood, or routine. Early signs of a crisis can include withdrawal, agitation, or unusual speech patterns.

Develop a Crisis Plan

• Involve Your Loved One:
  Collaborate with your loved one to create a crisis plan. This empowers them and ensures that the plan reflects their preferences and needs.
• Emergency Contacts:
  List important contacts, including healthcare providers, crisis hotlines, and trusted friends or family members.
• Action Steps:
  Outline specific steps to take during a crisis, such as who to call, where to go, and what to say.

Components of a Crisis Plan

• Personal Information:
  Include your loved one’s name, age, diagnosis, and any relevant medical history.
• Symptoms and Triggers:
  Document known symptoms, triggers, and effective coping strategies.
• Emergency Contacts:
  Provide contact information for doctors, therapists, and emergency services.
• Preferred Interventions:
  Specify preferred interventions and treatments, such as medication preferences or hospital choices.
• Crisis Scenarios and Responses:
  Describe potential crisis scenarios and appropriate responses. Include steps for de-escalation and safe transportation to medical facilities.

Example Crisis Plan Template

• Name:
  [Your Loved One’s Name]
• Diagnosis:
  [Mental Health Condition]
• Triggers:
  [List Known Triggers]
• Preferred Interventions:
  [List Early Warning Signs]
• Emergency Contacts:
  
  • Primary Care Physician: [Contact Information]
  • Therapist: [Contact Information]
  • Crisis Hotline: [Contact Information]
• Action Steps:
  
  • Remove potential hazards from the immediate area.
  • Use calming techniques (e.g., deep breathing, soothing music).
  • Contact [Emergency Contact] if the situation escalates
  • If necessary, call 911 and inform them of the mental health crisis.

Crisis Hotlines and Helplines

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
  1-800-273-8255
• Local Crisis Services:
  Research and save contact information for local crisis intervention services.

Mobile Crisis Units

Join support groups for caregivers and families of individuals with mental health conditions. These groups can offer emotional support and practical advice.

Support Groups and Counseling

• Support Groups:
  Join support groups for caregivers and families of individuals with mental health conditions. These groups can offer emotional support and practical advice.
• Professional Counseling:
  Consider family counseling to improve communication and develop effective coping strategies.

Prioritize Your Well-Being

• Set Boundaries:
  Establish clear boundaries to protect your time and energy.
• Take Breaks:
  Regularly schedule time for yourself to relax and recharge.
• Seek Support:
  Don’t hesitate to seek help from friends, family, or professional counselors.

Manage Stress

• Exercise:
  Physical activity can reduce stress and improve your mood.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation:
  Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help you stay calm and focused.

yoga can help you stay calm and focused. Crisis prevention is a critical aspect of supporting a family member with a mental health condition. By educating yourself, fostering open communication, creating a supportive environment, identifying triggers, and developing a comprehensive crisis plan, you can help prevent crises and ensure your loved one receives the best possible care. Remember to utilize community resources and prioritize your own well-being to maintain a balanced and healthy caregiving relationship.