Seeing someone you care about struggle is frightening. They might seem like a different person. You feel worried but aren’t sure what to do.
At Denn’s Room Psychiatry, we know that being able to identify the signals of a mental health crisis can be the first step toward saving that life. Therefore, education and compassion are very effective tools for an individual and the community at large.
We will take you through some of the signs to look for, how best to respond, and what you can do to help someone in distress.
What Is a Mental Health Crisis?
A mental health crisis is when someone can’t cope with their thoughts or feelings. They may be trapped, despairing, or quite powerless. It is an emergency, though, like a broken arm, you cannot see it.
At Denn’s Room Psychiatry, we help individuals and teams understand these invisible emergencies through mental wellness education, trauma-informed care, and crisis de-escalation training.
Key Warning Signs: How to Spot Trouble
Look for big changes in how the person acts, feels, or talks. Here’s what to watch for:
Changes in Behavior
A sudden behavior change is a key sign of a mental health crisis. The person may act very differently from usual.
- Social Withdrawal: A previously social person can become withdrawn. In Denn’s Room, isolation is perceived as one of the frequent reactions to trauma or depression, and it should not be neglected.
- Risky or Self-Destructive Behaviors: Behaviors such as drug abuse or irresponsible behaviors may be warning signs. Such habits could be the means of dealing with emotional suffering.
Emotional and Psychological Symptoms
Emotional and psychological signs can be harder to notice, but are just as important. Changes in mood, thoughts, and feelings can show that something is wrong.
- Sudden Mood Swings: Someone in distress could face unexpected feelings. They might be incredibly joyful and then extremely depressed in a second.
- Hopelessness or Helplessness: If someone expresses, they “don’t understand the reason for persisting,” it’s a critical sign. It can involve feelings about being a burden to others.
Physical Symptoms
At Denn’s Room Psychiatry, we teach that the mind and body are deeply connected. Physical changes can be rooted in emotional distress.
- Changes in Sleep
Trouble sleeping or excessive sleeping can signal mental overload.
- Appetite and Weight Shifts
Skipping meals or overeating may be a coping strategy.
- Cognitive Changes
Stress and trauma can impair how someone thinks or processes information.
- Difficulty Focusing
Trouble concentrating may mean their mind is in survival mode.
- Disorientation or Confusion
A foggy mental state is common during emotional breakdowns.
Verbal Cues to Watch For
Focusing on what someone mentions can bring to light vital signs of their emotional state.
- Talk about Self-Harm or Suicide
When a person speaks about harming themselves, they mean it. Such remarks indicate the high level of necessity for support.
- Worthlessness
Statements such as, I am no good, or the world would be better without me are a cause of great alarm.
What to Do When You Spot the Signs
If you recognize any of these signs, don’t ignore them. At Denn’s Room Psychiatry, we encourage taking gentle, purposeful steps rooted in empathy and support.
- Talk to Them
Say, “I’ve noticed you seem off lately. Want to talk about it?” Be gentle and listen.
- Offer Support
Make them understand you are available to them. Tell them you are not alone, or I have come to help you.
- Encourage Them to Get Help
Gently suggest connecting with a therapist or psychiatric provider.
At Denn’s Room Psychiatry, we offer telehealth psychiatric services, so getting help is accessible, private, and easy, even in times of distress.
- In Case of Emergency
Don’t wait if they claim to be considering harming themselves or other people. Dial 911 or go to the closest hospital.
When to Seek Immediate Help
Some moments call for urgent action.
- Contact a Mental Health Professional
If a person is becoming extremely overwhelmed or speaks about suicide, don’t delay.
At Denn’s Room, you will find an environment that is caring, respectful, and highly individualized, with a trauma-informed approach even in a moment of crisis.
- Use Crisis Resources
Encourage the person to call a crisis line or connect them yourself. National helplines, local resources, or community psychiatric services like ours are available 24/7.
How to Have a Conversation about Mental Health
Conversations about mental health may not be easy, yet they are usually lifesaving. Find a quiet and safe space. Make sure they are willing to talk. Start with kindness and a real desire to understand. Be patient.
Denn’s Room Psychiatry offers mental wellness education. This helps communities feel more confident in having these important conversations.
Take Care of Yourself, Too
Supporting someone through a mental health crisis is emotionally demanding. Don’t forget: you matter too.
- Talk to someone you trust
- Get rest and eat well
- Set boundaries
- Seek your support if needed
If you’re a caregiver, health worker, or team leader, Denn’s Room offers Burnout Prevention & Self-Care Training to help you thrive while helping others.
Conclusion
Mental wellness isn’t always simple to discuss. But talking about it is what helps. If you’re reading this, you already care, and that matters more than you know.
Remember, how to spot a mental health crisis in someone close to you is a life skill. It can help you support someone you love in their darkest moment.
Are You Ready to Help Someone You Love?
Whether you need advice on how to help a loved one or you need to help yourself, Denn’s Room Psychiatry provides trauma-informed care and mental health education on top of caring telehealth services. Book your appointment now.
FAQs
Q: How can I tell if my friend is having a mental health crisis?
Look for signs like mood changes, social withdrawal, or feelings of hopelessness. If they mention self-harm or feeling worthless, it’s time to help.
Q: What should I say to someone in a mental health crisis?
Be supportive and non-judgmental, and advise them to get professional assistance.