What To Do in a Crisis


There are different steps to take depending on whether you are the individual experiencing a crisis, or if you are helping someone in a crisis.

If you are the individual who is experiencing the crisis, here are some factors to keep in mind to help maintain your mental health:

  • Prioritize—focus only on the basic necessities to be able to function and get through your day. Do not take on too much and overwhelm yourself; this is to conserve energy.
  • Reach out to your support system—having a support system of people that will listen to you can help you work through the crisis and feel supported. This group can include friends, family, or professional help, such as a psychologist or crisis centres.
  • Engage in self care—find what works for you to manage and lessen your stress.
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If you are helping someone through a crisis in their life, here are some factors to keep in mind:

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  • Be an active listener—listen to the person’s feelings without giving simplistic solutions or advice. Try to be as supportive and encouraging as possible.
  • Help—this person will most likely need assistance in basic areas of life in the beginning of a crisis (or even how to prioritize the basic necessities), so offer your help in whatever way is most helpful to them.
  • Encourage professional support—professionals have the training and materials to help people in a crisis. You could offer to help look for a professional with the person, or arrange transportation to their appointments.