Dealing with mental health emergencies can be very scary and daunting, and you might find yourself at a loss on how to respond.
Equip yourself with our step by step guide on how to handle mental health crises so you know what to do in the future.
Step 1: Remain Calm
If the person exhibits suicidal behaviours, such as self-harm, remain calm and composed. Do not react emotionally as it may make him/her defensive and less likely to accept your help.
Step 2: Attend to Immediate Safety Needs
In the event that the person has already carried out acts of self-harm such as by slashing his/her wrists, or ingesting poisonous substances or over-dosing on medication, call for the ambulance and attend to any open wounds as deemed appropriate while waiting for the medics to come. It is useful to keep a well-stocked first aid kit at home for such emergencies.
Step 3: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
In cases where the person has not conducted any acts of self-harm but is actively suicidal, call the ambulance or bring the person to the nearest emergency department of the nearest hospital for further assessment and medical treatment by mental health professionals.
Step 4: Crisis Hotlines
In cases where the person is resistant towards seeking medical attention, you may want to consider seeking help from crisis hotlines (e.g. 1-SOS) for assistance and support.