What to Do During a Mental Health Crisis—And What Not to Do

A mental health crisis can come on suddenly and feel overwhelming—both for the person experiencing it and for those around them. Whether it’s a panic attack, a psychotic episode, suicidal thoughts, or an acute depressive spiral, knowing what to do (and what not to do) can make all the difference. At Neurish Wellness, we specialize in helping individuals regain stability, safety, and clarity with the highest level of professional care and human compassion.

Clients experiencing a mental health crisis begin their healing journey in our beautiful El Toro house in Fountain Valley, where we provide 24/7 medical and emotional support in a warm, private setting. This is our Crisis Stabilization program—a short-term intensive level of care designed to restore a sense of safety and prepare each client for the next phase of treatment.

Contact Mental Health Professionals Right Away

The sooner you involve trained mental health professionals, the better. Crises can escalate quickly, and a team like ours at Neurish is equipped to assess risk, provide immediate interventions, and develop a long-term care plan.

Help the Individual Feel Safe and Seen

Stay calm. Speak slowly and clearly. Let them know they’re not alone and that help is available. Reassure them that they are in a safe space, even if their thoughts are telling them otherwise.

Remove Immediate Stressors

If possible, reduce noise, bright lights, or triggering environments. Keep the setting as neutral and comforting as possible. This creates space for someone to accept support without feeling overwhelmed.

Be Present, Not Problem-Solving

During a crisis, listening is more powerful than advice. Let your loved one or friend speak, cry, sit in silence—whatever they need. Be a grounding presence rather than a fixer.

Involve Family Members or Peers When Appropriate

With consent, involving family members or trusted peers can reinforce safety and comfort. At Neurish, we often include loved ones in care planning once the immediate crisis has been stabilized.

Don’t Dismiss or Minimize the Situation

Statements like “You’ll be fine” or “It’s not that bad” can increase feelings of isolation and shame. Every mental illness manifests differently—and every crisis deserves to be taken seriously.

Don’t Leave the Person Alone If They’re in Danger

If there is a risk of self-harm or harm to others, stay with the person or ensure someone else can. Our El Toro house offers 24 hour monitoring by trained clinicians to keep clients safe during high-risk moments.

Don’t Jump to Hospitalization—Unless It’s Needed

While hospitalization can be necessary in some cases, it’s not the only option. Many people in crisis do better in structured yet calming environments like Neurish’s Crisis Stabilization program, which offers the same clinical quality without the sterile hospital feel.

Don’t Assume One Week Fixes Everything

A week in stabilization can be life-changing—but it’s often just the beginning. The most effective treatment plans are part of a larger continuum that may include residential care, outpatient programming, and therapy.

Our team of experienced clinicians is here to provide immediate support for those in crisis, while also mapping out next steps. We use a combination of psychiatric care, evidence-based therapies, and holistic wellness practices to help clients regain balance and hope.

In addition to treating conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and mental illness, we help clients learn coping skills, establish routines, and reconnect with themselves and others. Our Crisis Stabilization clients are always treated with respect, dignity, and care.

If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, you are not alone. Neurish Wellness is here to help you find a place where healing can begin—one that feels calm, supportive, and clinically sound.

Contact us today to learn how we can help restore stability and provide the compassionate treatment you or your loved one deserves.