What Is a Mental Health Crisis or Emergency?

Abstract A mental health crisis or emergency occurs when someone is overwhelmed by intense emotional distress or when someone experiences severe changes in behavior, which may put them or others at risk. These situations often involve feelings of hopelessness or thoughts of self-harm or suicide. These emergencies can also involve extreme anxiety or panic attacks. Alternatively, a mental health emergency might involve a sudden disconnection from reality, such as hallucinations or delusions. In these moments, the individual may not be able to think clearly or make safe decisions. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent an individual in crisis from being harmed or doing harm to others. This chapter will increase understanding about mental health emergencies.