How to Support a Loved One in Crisis: A Compassionate Guide
Watching someone you care about struggle with a mental health crisis can feel overwhelming. You want to help—but may worry about saying or doing the wrong thing. At Brightstone Psychiatry, we help families navigate these difficult moments with evidence-based strategies.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✅ How to recognize crisis warning signs
✅ What to say (and what to avoid)
✅ Practical steps to take immediately
✅ How to care for yourself while helping others
✅ FAQ about crisis intervention
Recognizing the Signs of Crisis
A mental health crisis goes beyond typical stress. Watch for:
🚩 Extreme mood swings (rage, despair, or emotional numbness)
🚩 Talking about death or suicide (even casually)
🚩 Reckless behavior (substance abuse, self-harm, dangerous driving)
🚩 Withdrawing completely from friends/family
🚩 Psychotic symptoms (hearing voices, paranoia)
Note: Trust your instincts. If something feels "off," take it seriously.
How to Help: Do’s and Don’ts
What TO Do
✔ Listen without judgment
"I’m here. You’re not alone in this."
✔ Ask directly about suicide
"Are you thinking about ending your life?" (This doesn’t "put ideas" in their head.)
✔ Remove immediate dangers
Secure medications, weapons, or car keys if needed.
✔ Connect them to professionals
"Let’s call your therapist together."
✔ Stay calm
Your steady presence matters more than perfect words.
What to AVOID
✖ Minimizing their pain
"It’s not that bad."
✖ Promising secrecy
"I won’t tell anyone" (You may need to break this to save them.)
✖ Trying to "fix" it alone
This isn’t about willpower—professional help is essential.
Emergency Resources
If someone is in immediate danger:
Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
Text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)
Go to the nearest ER
For non-urgent support:
📞 Brightstone Psychiatry: 832-378-8282
(Telehealth available in TX & MN)
Breathing Techniques Can Help Stressful Situations
FAQ: Supporting Someone in Crisis
1. What if they refuse help?
Express concern calmly: "I care about you and am worried."
Involve others: Reach out to their doctor, family, or clergy.
2. Should I leave them alone?
Not if they’re actively suicidal. Stay until help arrives or the crisis passes.
3. How do I know if it’s "bad enough" for the hospital?
When in doubt, err on the side of caution. ERs can assess risk.
4. What if I say the wrong thing?
Your presence matters more than perfect words. Avoid arguing, but don’t stay silent.
5. How can I care for myself too?
Set boundaries (you’re not their therapist)
Join a support group (NAMI.org has free ones)
Schedule a check-in with your own therapist
6. Can telehealth help in crises?
For non-life-threatening situations, yes. We offer urgent telehealth visits in Texas and Minnesota.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Supporting someone in crisis is emotionally taxing. Brightstone Psychiatry provides:
🔹 Crisis intervention guidance
🔹 Same-day telehealth appointments (where available)
🔹 Family therapy to rebuild stability
📞 Call 832-378-8282
📧 Email: Hello@BrightStonePsychiatry.com
🌐 More resources: https://www.brightstonepsychiatry.com