A health crisis is anything that affects your mental or physical well-being and can’t be easily managed by you or a loved one. It can include a serious illness, a natural disaster or an unforeseen medical emergency.
It can also mean a major change in the way you normally do things like a sudden onset of chronic fatigue, significant changes in sleep patterns and unexplained aches or pains. A health crisis can also affect your emotional stability and cognitive function, resulting in a decline in work performance or a sudden change in relationships with friends and family members.
While every person experiences a health crisis differently, there are some warning signs to watch out for: Dramatic changes in behavior and mood, such as suicidal thoughts or feelings of hopelessness, helplessness and anxiety. Pronounced changes in daily functioning or activities such as skipping meals, not going to work or not showing up for social engagements. Sudden or severe weight loss or gain.
If you know someone who is experiencing a mental health crisis, it’s important to be supportive and provide them with a safe space. This means removing any potential triggers and hazards, keeping them away from dangerous locations, not touching them unless they give you permission, and avoiding any confrontations. It’s also important to stay calm and reassure them that they are not alone and that there is always someone who can help. If they are at risk of harming themselves or others, call 911 immediately. Otherwise, call their county’s crisis line or 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for immediate assistance.