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Mental health crisis: support and help

Emergency numbers differ by country. This page uses 911, the number for the United States and Canada. Many other countries use 112, 999, or another number. Find the number for your country.

A mental health crisis occurs when someone is in extreme emotional distress, experiencing severe agitation, or at risk of harming themselves or others. Calm, non-judgmental support helps keep everyone safe.

Do this now

  1. If anyone is in immediate danger of physical harm, call your local emergency number (911 in the United States, 112 in Europe, 999 in the United Kingdom).
  2. If in the United States, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24 hours a day, free and confidential).
  3. Stay calm, speak softly, and listen without judging or arguing.
  4. Remove lethal objects, weapons, sharp items, or medications from the immediate area.
  5. Do not leave the person alone if they express thoughts of suicide.

Warning signs of acute crisis

A person may need crisis assistance if they exhibit:

  • Explicit statements about wanting to die, self-harm, or end their life.
  • Feeling hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live.
  • Extreme mood swings, severe agitation, rage, or violent outbursts.
  • Withdrawal from loved ones, friends, and daily activities.
  • Giving away possessions or saying goodbye to people.
  • Hallucinations, extreme paranoia, or detachment from reality.

How to talk to someone in distress

  • Listen actively: Give them your full attention. Let them talk without interrupting.
  • Acknowledge their feelings: Say things like, "I hear how much pain you are in" or "Thank you for sharing this with me."
  • Ask directly: It is a myth that asking about suicide plants the idea. Ask clearly, "Are you thinking about suicide?"
  • Avoid minimizations: Do not say "Cheer up", "It could be worse", or "You have so much to live for."
  • Stay present: Sit near them and keep your posture open and non-threatening.

Crisis lines around the world

  • United States & Canada: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line.
  • United Kingdom: Call 111 to reach NHS mental health services, or call Samaritans at 116 123.
  • Australia: Call Lifeline at 13 11 14.
  • International: Visit findahelpline.com to find free, confidential local crisis helplines in over 100 countries.

... note "Mental health first aid" Mental Health First Aid courses teach community members how to recognize, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders safely.