How to recognize someone in crisis.

A crisis is a situation that overwhelms a person’s coping mechanisms. It often involves intense emotional distress, such as anxiety, fear, anger, or sadness. This can lead to impaired functioning, as the individual may struggle to think clearly, make decisions, or perform daily tasks. A sense of loss of control often accompanies a crisis, as the person may feel unable to cope with the situation.

Common triggers for crises include major life events like divorce, job loss, serious illness, or the death of a loved one. Traumatic experiences, such as accidents, violence, or natural disasters, can also precipitate a crisis. Additionally, mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or substance abuse can contribute to crises.

It’s important to remember that a crisis can be a temporary state that can be resolved with appropriate support. However, if left untreated, it can lead to more severe mental health issues.

Emotional & Behavioral Indicators Of Crisis:

Emotional Dysregulation: Rapid shifts in mood, including extreme highs or lows, intense anger, or excessive sadness.
Behavioral Changes: Significant alterations in daily routines, such as isolation, neglect of responsibilities, or changes in sleep or eating patterns.
Substance Abuse: Increased reliance on alcohol or drugs to cope with distress.
Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors: Expressing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, or making attempts.
Aggression: Increased irritability, hostility, or violent behavior.
Intrusive Thoughts: Recurrent thoughts or flashbacks related to the traumatic event.
Avoidance: Deliberately avoiding reminders of the event, such as places, people, or activities.
Emotional Numbness: Difficulty experiencing or expressing emotions, feeling emotionally detached.

Cognitive Indicators Of Crisis:

Difficulty Concentrating: Struggling to focus, maintain attention, or make decisions.
Memory Problems: Difficulty remembering details of the event or other information.
Negative Thinking Patterns: Pessimistic beliefs, self-blame, or hopelessness.

Physical Indicators Of Crisis:

Physical Aches & Pains: Increased physical complaints, such as headaches, stomachaches, or muscle tension.
Changes in Appetite: Significant changes in eating habits, such as overeating or loss of appetite.
Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, nightmares, or excessive sleepiness.

It’s important to note that these are general signs and symptoms, and individual experiences may vary. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek professional help.

How To Support Someone In Crisis

Active Listening: One of the most powerful ways to support someone in crisis is by actively listening. Show genuine interest in their experiences and feelings. Avoid offering unsolicited advice or judgment. Instead, simply be present and let them know you’re there for them.

Address Practical Needs: During a crisis, everyday tasks can become overwhelming. By offering practical help, such as running errands, cooking, or cleaning, you can significantly reduce their stress. This support can be invaluable and can make a big difference in their recovery.

Prioritize Your Own Well-being: Before you can effectively support someone else, it’s essential to take care of yourself. Supporting a person in crisis can be emotionally taxing. By attending to your own needs, you can prevent burnout and maintain your ability to provide meaningful support. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. It also models healthy coping strategies for your loved one, encouraging them to prioritize their well-being as well.

Encourage Professional Help: If your loved one is struggling to cope, encourage them to seek professional help. Offer to assist with finding a therapist or support group. Your support can be instrumental in helping them access the resources they need to heal.

Treat it like a medical emergency.

The type of support needed during a crisis depends on the situation’s urgency.

Emergency Situations: Call 911 if someone’s life is in immediate danger and needs immediate intervention to prevent self-harm or harm to others. This is the most critical response for situations requiring immediate action.

Immediate Support: Crisis hotlines are a lifeline during a crisis. Available 24/7, they offer a way to connect with a trained counselor who can provide coping skills, resources, and emotional support. Sometimes, talking to someone for a few minutes can de-escalate the situation and help you navigate the immediate crisis. Many hotlines can also connect you with emergency services if needed.

Crisis Counseling: Crisis counseling sessions can vary, lasting 30 minutes to 2 hours. Typically, you might attend one to three sessions a week for a period of 8 to 12 weeks. The main focus of these sessions is to help you stabilize emotionally and develop coping mechanisms to manage the challenges brought on by the crisis. If you need crisis counseling, you can Request Services Here.

Reaching out for help during a crisis is a sign of strength, not weakness. Don’t hesitate to seek support if you or someone you know is struggling.

Disclaimer: New Mexico Crisis Counseling aims to improve the quality of life for people experiencing critical mental health concerns and the people who love them with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options, and their related outcomes. We publish material researched, cited, edited, and reviewed by licensed professionals. The information above is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.