How to Support a Loved One Who Is in a Mental Health Crisis

When a friend or family member is experiencing a mental health crisis, it can be overwhelming, confusing, and emotionally distressing. Knowing how to support a loved one who is in a mental health crisis is crucial, not only for their safety but also for their recovery journey. This guide offers evidence-based strategies to help you recognize the warning signs, respond appropriately, and connect your loved one with critical mental health resources.

Understanding What a Mental Health Crisis Looks Like

A mental health crisis occurs when a person’s behavior puts them at risk of hurting themselves or someone else, or prevents them from being able to care for themselves or function effectively. It is not always predictable and may emerge suddenly or build over time.

Common Signs of a Mental Health Crisis

Recognizing the warning signs is the first step in providing effective emotional support:

• Expressing suicidal thoughts or intentions
• Severe mood swings or emotional outbursts
• Paranoia or hallucinations
• Inability to perform daily tasks (eating, bathing, etc.)
• A dramatic change in behavior or sleep habits
• Talking about feeling hopeless, worthless, or like a burden
• Increased substance abuse
• Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities
• Speaking about wanting to “end it all” or saying goodbye to people
  

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences a mental illness each year, and 1 in 20 experiences a serious mental illness that interferes with major life activities.[1]

Step-by-Step: How to Support a Loved One Who Is in a Mental Health Crisis

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

When someone you care about is struggling emotionally, your initial reaction matters. Remaining calm helps de-escalate the situation and provides the person with a sense of safety.

To prepare yourself and keep your loved one calm, you should:

• Take a deep breath before engaging
• Use a non-judgmental tone
• Avoid raising your voice or making accusations
  

If the person is in immediate danger (e.g., has a weapon, is attempting suicide, or is acting violently), call 911 or take them to the emergency room.

2. Talk Openly and Listen Without Judgment

Create a space where your loved one can talk freely. One of the most powerful tools you have is your ability to listen.

The best way to communicate with your loved one during a mental health crisis includes:

• Use open-ended questions like “How are you feeling today?” or “Can you tell me what’s been going on?”
• Validate their feelings without trying to “fix” them immediately
• Don’t minimize their pain or tell them to “snap out of it.”
  

Talking openly helps reduce stigma and reinforces that the person is not alone.

3. Encourage Professional Help

If the situation is not life-threatening, help your loved one seek support from a mental health professional. Offer to assist with scheduling appointments or researching mental health services.

You can suggest:

• A visit to a primary care provider to rule out medical issues
• Connecting with a social worker or therapist
• Utilizing an employee assistance program (EAP) if available at their workplace
• Calling the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) hotline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential treatment referrals

4. Create a Crisis Plan Together

If the person is open to it, help them develop a mental health crisis plan. This plan outlines:

• Warning signs that they are entering a crisis
• Coping strategies that have helped them in the past
• A list of support people to contact
• Steps to take if the situation worsens
• Emergency contacts and mental health resources
  

Having a plan in place can empower the person to feel more in control during future episodes.

5. Help Them Access Community and Social Services

Many people facing a mental health problem also deal with financial hardship, housing insecurity, or trauma. Connecting them with local social services can provide additional support.

Resources may include:

• Community health centers
• Crisis intervention teams
• Housing assistance programs
• Peer support groups
  

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website offers searchable directories to find services in your area.

Special Situations: When the Risk Is High

Suicidal Crisis

If your loved one is experiencing a suicidal crisis, do not leave them alone. Remove access to potential means of harm (e.g., weapons, medications), and contact emergency services immediately.

You should:

• Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) in the U.S.
• Bring them to the hospital or emergency room
• Stay with them until a health professional can evaluate the situation
  

Never promise to keep suicidal thoughts a secret. Safety always takes precedence over privacy.

Substance Abuse and Dual Diagnosis

Substance use can exacerbate symptoms of mental illness, and vice versa. When a person is dealing with both, it’s essential to pursue integrated treatment from professionals experienced in substance abuse and mental health.

Providing Long-Term Support

A mental health crisis is often just one part of a longer journey. Here’s how to continue providing support:

Maintain Consistent Check-Ins

Regular messages or calls can help your loved one feel connected and supported, even if they don’t always respond.

Help Normalize Treatment

Encourage ongoing treatment by emphasizing that mental health care is just as important as physical care. Use language that reflects acceptance and understanding.

Educate Yourself

Learn more about mental illness and specific diagnoses your loved one may be facing. This helps reduce fear, misunderstanding, and stigma.

Support Healthy Habits

Encourage habits that improve emotional well-being:

• Regular exercise
• Nutritious meals
• Stable sleep habits
• Avoiding drugs and alcohol
• Relaxation techniques (meditation, journaling)

Set Boundaries

You cannot take full responsibility for someone else’s recovery. Acknowledge your limits and consider seeking therapy or joining a support group for family members of people with mental illness.

When You Need to Seek Immediate Help

You should seek immediate help if:

• The person expresses a plan to harm themselves or others
• There is a dramatic change in mood or behavior
• They are unresponsive or incoherent
• You feel unable to ensure their safety
  

Remember: Calling 911 or taking someone to an emergency room is not a betrayal—it’s often the most caring action you can take during a health crisis.

Get Connected to a Mental Health Treatment Center

Supporting a loved one through a mental health crisis is emotionally taxing. It’s normal to feel helpless, confused, or even angry. But your presence and willingness to engage can make a profound difference in someone’s life.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for your own support. Many community clinics and workplaces offer access to counseling, either through local social services or employee assistance programs.

Being there for someone else does not mean you have to go through it alone. Contact 1st Step Behavioral Health for more information on how we can help you and your loved one navigate a mental health crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I know if someone is faking a mental health crisis?

It’s important not to assume that anyone is “faking” a mental health problem. Mental health symptoms can vary widely and may not always be visible. Assuming someone is pretending can cause further harm and prevent them from getting the help they need. Instead of judging, focus on offering support and encouraging professional evaluation to determine the appropriate care.

2. What should I do if my loved one refuses help or denies there is a problem?

It’s common for people in crisis to resist help due to fear, stigma, or lack of insight. Continue expressing your concern without pressuring them. Use “I” statements like, “I’ve noticed you seem very withdrawn, and I’m worried about you.” Offer specific resources and gently encourage them to talk to a mental health professional. If they pose a risk to themselves or others, seek help from emergency services, even without their consent.

3. Can I be held legally responsible if I don’t intervene during a crisis?

In general, private citizens are not legally obligated to intervene in mental health emergencies unless they are caregivers or professionals. However, if someone is in immediate danger and you fail to act, there could be moral and potentially legal consequences, depending on local laws. It’s best to seek immediate help if safety is at risk. When in doubt, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline for guidance.

4. What are the best ways to emotionally take care of myself while supporting someone else?

Caring for someone in crisis can be emotionally draining. Make sure to:

• Set healthy boundaries
• Take breaks when needed
• Seek your own therapy or support group
• Maintain your sleep, nutrition, and social life
  

Supporting someone else doesn’t mean sacrificing your own mental health. Your well-being is vital for sustaining long-term support.

5. Are there legal tools available if a loved one is a danger to themselves or others but refuses help?

Yes. In many states, there are involuntary commitment laws or mental health court options that allow for short-term psychiatric evaluation when a person is at serious risk. This usually requires involvement from law enforcement or medical professionals. Each jurisdiction has different rules, so contacting local mental health services or legal aid can help you understand your options.

6. Can I involve the person’s workplace in helping them get support?

Yes, but with care. Many employers offer confidential assistance through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which can help with short-term counseling and referrals. If you are a manager or colleague, respect their privacy and approach with empathy. You may encourage them to reach out to HR or EAP directly, especially if their mental health is affecting job performance or safety.

References:

1. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Mental Health by the Numbers