Mental Health Emergency
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Abrupt changes in thinking, behavior, hallucinations, and severe
confusion can be frightening for the person experiencing it, and also
for the people around them.

When someone's thinking and perceptions cause them to want to hurt
themselves or others, it becomes an emergency and they need help
quickly.  As with any other emergency, first try to check breathing,
stop any bleeding, and check for other physical injuries.  Then
reassuring, calming and comforting a person having a mental health
emergency can save lives.

> If someone says he wants to hurt himself or others, believe him.

If the person is dangerous to others, it is often easier to move
other people away than to move him.  You may need help to make him
and the area around him safe.  And look out for your own safety as
well.

Calm listening
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If he says he wants to hurt or kill himself, the first thing he needs
is someone to listen calmly.  Ask gentle questions, to show you care
and to be sure you understand.  Your questioning can help to
interrupt his thoughts and distract him from his purpose.

Step 1: Ask if he plans to hurt himself or someone else, or if he has
already done so.

Ask questions
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Step 2: Ask how he plans to do it, and if he has the means to do it.
The more specific the plan, the more serious the problem.

Ask for specific details
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Step 3: Ask the person to make an agreement that he will not hurt
himself or others.  Take away the means he would use to hurt himself
or others.

Make a temporary agreement
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Take away the means
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Making an agreement like this can keep someone OK long enough to get
more lasting help.  Do not leave him alone.  Stay with the person, or
have family members or friends stay with him.  Make sure he stays
sober and does not drink alcohol or use drugs.  Alcohol or drugs can
further cloud his judgement and make self-harm more likely.  It may
be helpful to seek the help of spiritual or community leaders who he
respects.  Following up to see that he continues to get help, and to
show that you care about him, is important.

> Asking someone if he wants to kill himself does not make him more
> likely to do so.

> from NEW WHERE THERE IS NO DOCTOR © Hesperian Health Guides,
> 1919 Addison St Ste 304, Berkeley, CA, 94704, 1.510.845.1447,
> [email protected]

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