Dealing with a mental health crisis
Getting help when you’re having or about to have an emotional breakdown is vital, it prevents harm from happening to you or the people around you. It can literally save your life.
There is no shame in asking for help when you are in need of support, it’s a stigma that shouldn’t exist. As humans sometimes we need to seek help from others in order to know which direction we are supposed to be heading.
Did you know according to the Samaritans charity their 23,000 volunteers answered a call from someone in crisis every 10 seconds.
It is very important that we look after ourselves and our well-being. I am a strong believer in self love and appreciation which includes treating yourself the same way you would treat a loved one who was going through something similar. Understandably it’s easier said than done.
There are things we can do when in the midst of a mental health crisis to ease symptoms and keep ourselves safe from harm.
What is a mental health crisis?
A mental health crisis is when somebody requires urgent help for their mental health and well-being.
What to do if you’re feeling mentally unwell but not in crisis
- Distract yourself with a series or music
- Call a friend or family member for a chat
- Practice self care by having a bath / shower
- Go for a walk and get some fresh air
- Practice CBT techniques
How to keep yourself safe during a mental breakdown
Dealing with a mental breakdown can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to help navigate through it. Here are some suggestions:
- Know who to ring whether that’s a friend, family member or professional organisation
- Call for immediate help if you or someone you know is in danger.
- Try different techniques such as the Tipp method (merging your face in cold water) or grounding exercises to calm down
- Take a break from commitments to prioritise your own needs
It’s important to recognise and give yourself credit for doing your best, especially during challenging times like a mental health crisis. You are taking the necessary steps to seek help and support, and that in itself is a significant accomplishment. Remember that progress and healing take time, and it’s okay to acknowledge your efforts along the way.
Take a moment to reflect on your journey so far and appreciate the strength you’ve shown in reaching out for assistance. Recognize the bravery and courage it takes to ask for help, and be proud of yourself for taking those steps towards your well-being. Remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
It’s also crucial to practice self-compassion. Be kind to yourself and avoid being too hard on yourself. Understand that everyone has limits, and it’s okay to give yourself grace during difficult moments. Remember to prioritize self-care, listen to your needs, and take breaks when necessary.
Keep in mind that progress may not always be linear, and there may be ups and downs along the way. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and learn from them. Remember that you are doing your best with the resources and knowledge you have.
Be proud of yourself for reaching out for help and taking steps towards your well-being. Give yourself credit for doing your best, practice self-compassion, and prioritize self-care throughout your journey. You are deserving of support and healing.
Useful numbers
NHS 111 – 111
Samaritans – 116 123
In case no one has told you today, I am proud of you.
Sincerely Abbey x
It is so encouraging to see that mental health is being talked about much more openly that in years past. There is better awareness but there is still much more to be done to add to this and also end the stigma around experiencing episodes of struggle. Thanks for sharing this information, it’s very useful, and much needed!