In a mental health crisis, how should you communicate with the affected person?

Communicating with someone in a mental health crisis requires a compassionate and calm approach. Listening empathetically and speaking quietly fosters a safe environment and can help the person feel understood and supported. This method encourages open communication, allowing the affected individual to express their feelings without fear of judgment or escalation.

Using a loud and assertive tone could heighten anxiety or fear, making the situation worse rather than helping. Making someone feel guilty for their feelings is damaging and counterproductive; it can lead to further distress and unwillingness to engage. Changing the subject might temporarily distract, but it can dismiss the person's emotions and concerns, which is often counterintuitive to effective communication in a crisis. Overall, the chosen approach promotes trust and de-escalation, essential elements in supporting someone during a mental health crisis.