How To Support Someone In A Crisis

What is a crisis?

Lifeline defines a crisis as 'someone's personal reaction to an event or experience in their life they find hard to cope with'. These events and experiences can include but are not limited to:

• A relationship breakdown
• Loss (of a loved one, job, home)
• Physical health issues
• Caring for another
• Violence and trauma
• Pressures from work or study
• An accident
• A natural disaster
• The onset of mental health issues

So what can you do?

• Let the person know that you care and are there to support them

• Treat the person with respect and dignity

• Offer practical support such as shopping or cooking meals

• Encourage healthy habits such as getting enough sleep, eating well and exercise

• Suggest speaking to someone they feel comfortable with e.g. GP, counsellor or mental health professional

• Offer assistance, e.g. help arrange an appointment with a doctor and, if they wish, accompany them to the meeting

Where to get help?

• Discuss the situation with your GP or medical professional

• Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or chat online here

• Visit Lifeline's facts and information section for additional resources

• Phone a Mental Health Crisis Line (available 24/7)

• Find a mental health support worker