How to Support Someone in a Mental Health Crisis: A Guide from Greene Mental Wellness

Catina Greene
Jun 30
3 min read

Supporting someone in a mental health crisis

When a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, knowing how to respond can make all the difference. At Greene Mental Wellness in Wake Forest, NC, we help families and friends navigate these challenging moments with compassion and expertise.

In this article, we’ll cover:

✅ How to recognize a mental health crisis✅ What to say (and what to avoid)✅ Immediate steps to take for safety✅ How to connect them with professional help✅ FAQs about crisis support

Recognizing a Mental Health Crisis

A mental health crisis is more than everyday stress—it’s a situation where someone’s emotions, thoughts, or behaviors become overwhelming and may put them at risk. Warning signs include:

🚨 Expressing suicidal thoughts (e.g., "I can’t go on anymore.")🚨 Severe agitation, aggression, or paranoia🚨 Self-harm or reckless behavior (substance abuse, dangerous driving)🚨 Withdrawing completely from social interaction🚨 Hallucinations or delusions (hearing voices, extreme distrust)

Trust your instincts. If you’re worried, take action—even if you’re not sure it’s a crisis.

How to Help: Do’s and Don’ts

What TO Do

✔ Stay calm and present

Speak softly, listen without interrupting.
"I’m here with you. You’re not alone."

✔ Ask directly about suicide

"Are you thinking about hurting yourself?" (Asking does NOT increase risk.)

✔ Remove immediate dangers

Secure medications, weapons, or car keys if needed.

✔ Encourage professional support

"Can we call your therapist together?"
Offer to help them schedule an appointment.

✔ Stay with them if they’re at risk

Don’t leave them alone if they’re suicidal or severely disoriented.

What to AVOID

✖ Judging or dismissing their feelings

"Just snap out of it."

✖ Making promises you can’t keep

"I won’t tell anyone." (If they’re in danger, you may need to seek help.)

✖ Trying to "fix" them on your own

Mental health crises require professional intervention.

Emergency Resources

If someone is in immediate danger:

Call 911 (if they’re at risk of harming themselves or others)
Call/text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
Go to the nearest emergency room

For non-urgent support, Greene Mental Wellness offers:📞 (919) 230-1419🌐 https://www.greenementalwellness.com

FAQ: Supporting Someone in Crisis

1. What if they refuse help?

Stay patient and express concern: "I care about you and want to help."
Involve trusted family members or their doctor if needed.

2. Should I leave them alone if they’re upset?

If they’re actively suicidal or psychotic, stay until help arrives.

3. How do I know if they need hospitalization?

If they’re a danger to themselves or others, go to the ER or call 911.

4. What if I say the wrong thing?

Being present is more important than perfect words. Avoid arguing but keep showing support.

5. How can I take care of myself while helping?

Set healthy boundaries—you’re not their therapist.
Seek support from friends, family, or a counselor.

6. Does Greene Mental Wellness offer crisis counseling?

We provide urgent evaluations and therapy for those in distress. Call (919) 230-1419 for availability.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Supporting someone in crisis can be emotionally draining. At Greene Mental Wellness, we provide:

🔹 Crisis intervention guidance🔹 Individual and family therapy🔹 Personalized treatment plans

📞 Call us at (919) 230-1419📍 Visit us at 833 Wake Forest Business Park Suite F, Wake Forest, NC 27587🌐 Learn more: https://www.greenementalwellness.com