I am in crisis!

Perhaps you’ve heard others say this phrase. Maybe you’ve even said it yourself in stressful situations. But what exactly does it mean to be in crisis? A mental health crisis refers to an individual’s reaction to a traumatic event or situation. Being in crisis means you are extremely overwhelmed by the situation, and your coping skills are not effective, making it difficult to take action or make decisions.

A crisis is an internal experience of confusion and anxiety. A person in crisis may feel confused, vulnerable, fearful, upset, guilty, powerless, and hopeless. During a crisis, the individual is unable to manage their emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Some may experience severe symptoms such as:

Panic attacks
Suicidal thoughts
Destructive behaviors
Hallucinations or delusions
Confusion
Extreme emotional reactions
Various factors, such as a traumatic event, significant loss, accumulated stress, or substance abuse, can trigger a crisis. Everyday situations that build up over time or worsen symptoms of existing conditions can also lead to a crisis. Every crisis is unique, so there is no set duration. Sometimes, a crisis may last a few hours; in other cases, it can persist for days or weeks.

In such situations, psychological or mental health first aid can be a key intervention to provide immediate assistance and resources, helping the person seek professional care. If you feel you are in crisis, keep emergency phone numbers nearby, such as 911, 988, Línea PAS 1-800-981-0023, as well as contacts for family and friends who offer positive support. If you have thoughts of self-harm, reach out to your mental health professional or go to the nearest hospital.

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