How to Create a Mental Health Emergency Plan: What to Do in a Crisis

A mental health crisis can be an overwhelming and frightening experience, both for the person going through it and for those around them. Having a mental health emergency plan in place can help manage these situations effectively and safely. A well-thought-out plan outlines steps to take, resources to use, and support systems to rely on during a crisis. This guide will help you create a comprehensive mental health emergency plan to be prepared for such situations.

Why You Need a Mental Health Emergency Plan

A mental health emergency plan is essential for managing crises like severe anxiety attacks, suicidal ideation, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or any situation where immediate help is required. It provides clarity during chaos and ensures that both the individual and their support network know what to do and whom to contact.

Benefits of Having a Plan:

• Reduces Panic and Confusion: A clear plan reduces the uncertainty and fear that can accompany a crisis, allowing for more controlled and effective responses.
• Ensures Safety: The plan focuses on the immediate safety of the person in crisis and those around them.
• Quick Access to Resources: It provides quick access to contact information for healthcare providers, crisis hotlines, and emergency services.
• Peace of Mind: Having a plan ensures that you have emergency contacts and resources readily available, contributing to a sense of security during a difficult time.

Steps to Create a Mental Health Emergency Plan

1. Identify Triggers and Warning Signs

• List Common Triggers: Identify specific situations, events, or stressors that are known to trigger a mental health crisis. This could include conflicts, anniversaries of traumatic events, or significant changes in life circumstances.
• Recognize Warning Signs: List early warning signs that indicate a crisis may be developing, such as changes in behavior, withdrawal, increased substance use, or erratic behavior. Common symptoms may include excessive fear or an increase in agitation.

2. Develop a Crisis Plan

• Step-by-Step Action Plan: Outline specific steps to take when a crisis occurs. This could include removing potentially dangerous objects, moving to a safe space, or contacting a support person.
• Emergency Contacts: Create a list of contacts, including:
  • Primary Support Person: A trusted friend or family member who is familiar with the individual’s mental health condition and can provide immediate support.
  • Mental Health Professional: Therapist, psychiatrist, or counselor who can provide professional guidance during a crisis.
  • Crisis Hotline Numbers: Include local and national crisis hotlines, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) and Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741).

3. Prepare a Safety Plan

• Safe Environment: Make the immediate environment safe by removing any items that could be used for self-harm or harm to others.
• Safe Place to Go: Identify a safe place where the individual can go if they need to leave their current environment, such as a friend’s house or a local crisis center.

4. Outline Coping Strategies

• Calming Techniques: Include a list of coping strategies that have been effective in the past, such as deep breathing, mindfulness exercises, listening to calming music, or grounding techniques.
• Distraction Activities: Activities that can help divert the mind from distressing thoughts, such as drawing, watching a favorite show, or going for a walk.

5. List Medications and Treatment Plan

• Medications: List any prescribed medications, including dosage and instructions. Ensure that there’s a supply of these medications available.
• Treatment History: Provide a brief history of treatment, including any past hospitalizations or significant treatment interventions that have been effective. This can help mental health professionals quickly understand the individual’s treatment preferences.

6. Create a Communication Plan

• How to Communicate: Outline how to communicate with the person in crisis. Avoid confrontational language and use supportive, non-judgmental communication.
• Who to Inform: Decide who needs to be informed in case of a crisis, such as family members, close friends, or the individual’s employer.

7. Include Emergency Services Information

• Local Emergency Numbers: In addition to 911, include numbers for local emergency psychiatric services, hospitals, and mobile crisis units.
• Transport Options: Identify how the individual will be transported to an emergency room or crisis center if needed. Having an emergency response plan can save valuable time during a crisis event.

8. Legal Considerations

• Advance Directive: If applicable, include a psychiatric advance directive that outlines the individual’s preferences for treatment during a crisis.
• Consent Forms: Keep copies of consent forms that allow healthcare providers to share information with designated support persons. These legal documents are crucial for effective crisis management.

How to Use the Mental Health Emergency Plan

1. Review Regularly

Update the plan as needed, especially if there are changes in medications, healthcare providers, or preferred coping strategies. Regular reviews ensure the plan remains relevant and effective.

2. Share the Plan

Share the plan with trusted individuals who are likely to be involved during a crisis. Ensure they understand their role and responsibilities. This collaborative approach enhances the support network available during a crisis.

3. Practice the Plan

Run through the plan periodically to ensure that everyone involved knows what to do. This can help reduce anxiety about what will happen during a real crisis and ensures a more effective response.

Conclusion

Creating a mental health emergency plan is a proactive step that can save lives and reduce the impact of a mental health crisis. By having a clear, actionable plan in place, individuals and their support networks can respond quickly and effectively, ensuring safety and access to the necessary resources. Remember, mental health crises are medical emergencies, and seeking immediate help is crucial. If you or someone you know is in crisis, don’t hesitate to reach out to emergency services or a mental health professional.

In times of crisis, having Mental Health Services and crisis intervention teams readily accessible is a key component to ensuring proper care and continuity of care. Whether it’s addressing substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, or other mental health conditions, an effective response can significantly impact recovery and well-being.