If you're in crisis, help is available 24/7
Call 988 or text HOME to 741741 for immediate support
Emergency Resources
If you're experiencing a mental health crisis, these resources are available 24/7.
Warning Signs
Recognizing these signs in yourself or others can help prevent a crisis.
Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors
- Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself
- Looking for ways to kill oneself
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious, agitated, or reckless
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Extreme mood swings
Mental Health Crisis Signs
- Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- Extreme mood swings
- Paranoia or delusions
- Hallucinations
- Severe depression
- Inability to function in daily life
- Thoughts of harming others
- Substance abuse or overdose
- Severe agitation or aggression
- Disconnection from reality
When to Seek Emergency Help
- Active suicidal thoughts with a plan
- Attempting to harm yourself
- Hearing voices telling you to harm yourself
- Severe paranoia or delusions
- Inability to care for basic needs
- Severe substance intoxication
- Thoughts of harming others
- Complete withdrawal from reality
- Severe physical symptoms from mental illness
- Any behavior that puts you or others at immediate risk
Coping Strategies
These techniques can help you manage crisis symptoms while waiting for professional help.
Grounding Techniques
Stay connected to the present moment
- 5-4-3-2-1: Name 5 things you can see, 4 you can touch, 3 you can hear, 2 you can smell, 1 you can taste
- Deep breathing: Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 4
- Focus on your feet on the ground
- Hold an ice cube or splash cold water on your face
Distraction Techniques
Temporarily shift your focus
- Call a friend or family member
- Listen to calming music
- Take a walk or exercise
- Watch a favorite movie or TV show
- Read a book or magazine
- Do a puzzle or play a game
- Write in a journal
- Take a warm bath or shower
Self-Care Strategies
Take care of your basic needs
- Eat something nutritious
- Drink water and stay hydrated
- Get some sleep if possible
- Take any prescribed medications
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
- Stay in a safe environment
- Reach out to someone you trust
What to Expect When You Call for Help
Crisis Hotlines (988, Crisis Text Line)
- Immediate response from trained crisis counselors
- Non-judgmental, confidential support
- Safety planning and coping strategies
- Referrals to local mental health resources
Emergency Room
- Immediate medical and psychiatric evaluation
- Assessment by mental health professionals
- Stabilization and safety measures if needed
- Discharge planning and follow-up care
Important Reminders
- • You are not alone. Many people experience mental health crises, and help is available.
- • It's okay to ask for help. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- • Crisis counselors are trained professionals who want to help you stay safe.
- • Your feelings are valid. Whatever you're experiencing is real and important.
- • This crisis will pass. With the right support, you can get through this difficult time.
After the Crisis
Once you're safe and stable, we can help you find ongoing mental health support.
If you're a current patient or would like to become one, please contact our office during business hours to schedule a follow-up appointment or initial evaluation.
Call (507) 237-6468