Mental Health First Aid: How to Help Someone in Crisis

When someone experiences a mental health crisis, the way you respond can make a significant difference in their safety, recovery, and long-term well-being. Just as physical first aid teaches you how to assist someone with a medical emergency until professional help arrives, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) equips you with the skills to support someone experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis.

At Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry in Tempe, Arizona, we believe that a community educated in mental health first aid is a stronger, healthier community. In this guide, we’ll explore what MHFA is, how to recognize a crisis, practical steps to help, and where to find professional support.

What is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based training program designed to teach individuals how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. The goal is not to diagnose or provide therapy, but to offer initial support until professional care is available.

MHFA covers:

• Recognizing signs and symptoms of common mental health problems (depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance misuse, suicidal thoughts).

• Assessing risk and ensuring safety.

• Listening nonjudgmentally and offering reassurance.

• Encouraging professional help and self-help strategies.

Recognizing a Mental Health Crisis

A mental health crisis is any situation in which someone’s behaviors, feelings, or thoughts put them at risk of harming themselves or others, or make them unable to function effectively in daily life.
Examples include:

• Expressing thoughts of suicide or self-harm

• Severe panic attacks or emotional distress

• Incoherent speech or behavior

• Aggressive or unsafe actions

• Extreme withdrawal or inability to care for oneself

10 Tips for Providing Mental Health First Aid

1. Stay Calm and Present – Your demeanor can help de-escalate the situation.

2. Ensure Immediate Safety – Remove harmful objects and call emergency services if necessary.

3. Listen Without Judgment – Allow them to share their feelings without criticism or interruption.

4. Validate Their Feelings – Acknowledge their pain and struggles as real and important.

5. Avoid Giving Unsolicited Advice – Focus on understanding rather than “fixing” the problem.

6. Ask Directly About Suicide – It’s okay to ask, “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” This does not increase risk; it opens the door for help.

7. Encourage Professional Help – Offer to help them contact a mental health provider, such as Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry in Tempe, AZ.

8. Know the Crisis Lines – Share the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or local hotlines.

9. Involve Trusted Support – Contact friends, family, or community members who can assist.

10. Follow Up – Check in after the crisis to show ongoing care and support.

Q & A: Mental Health First Aid

Q1: Do I need to be a mental health professional to give Mental Health First Aid?
A: No. Anyone can provide mental health first aid. The goal is to offer immediate, short-term support until professional help is available.

Q2: What should I do if the person refuses help?
A: Stay calm, keep communication open, and gently revisit the topic later. If there’s an immediate risk of harm, contact emergency services.

Q3: How do I know if it’s a crisis or just stress?
A: Crises usually involve a risk to safety, severe impairment in daily functioning, or extreme emotional distress that doesn’t improve quickly.

Q4: Is it okay to physically intervene if they are hurting themselves?
A: Only if you can do so safely and without harm to yourself. Otherwise, call for help immediately.

Q5: Where can I learn Mental Health First Aid skills?
A: Many organizations, including local nonprofits, hospitals, and community health centers, offer MHFA training. Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry can also guide you to resources and provide professional mental health services.

When to Seek Professional Help

While Mental Health First Aid is an essential skill, it’s not a substitute for treatment. If someone is experiencing ongoing mental health challenges, encourage them to connect with a qualified provider.

At Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry in Tempe, Arizona, our compassionate team offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, therapy, and crisis support. Whether you or someone you know is dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health concerns, we’re here to help.

If You or Someone You Know is in Crisis

• Call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline)

• Call 911 if there is immediate danger

• Reach out to Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry for ongoing care and support

Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry is committed to being Tempe’s leading resource for mental health treatment and counseling. With a combination of expert care, evidence-based treatments, and a welcoming environment, we help individuals move from crisis to stability and from stability to thriving.