Immediate intervention for any imminent dangerous behavior Details

It is important to seek immediate help in any situation where someone is experiencing a psychiatric emergency. Here are some conditions and scenarios where emergency care or a call to a psychiatric helpline is advisable:

Suicidal Ideation or Attempts:

· If someone is expressing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, or if there has been an attempt, seek immediate help.

Homicidal Thoughts:

· Expressions of intent to harm others require urgent intervention.

Psychosis:

· Experiencing hallucinations, delusions, or severe paranoia that impairs functioning or judgment.

Severe Depression:

· When someone is unable to care for themselves or has stopped functioning in daily life.

Manic Episodes:

· Particularly if there are delusions, reckless behavior, or inability to care for oneself safely.

Substance Overdose or Severe Withdrawal:

· This includes alcohol poisoning or withdrawal delirium.

Acute Anxiety or Panic Attacks:

· If someone is unable to calm down or is having difficulty breathing, especially if it’s causing physical symptoms like chest pain.

Severe Trauma or PTSD Flashbacks:

· Situations where someone is unable to distinguish from the past trauma and the present moment.

Aggressive or Violent Behavior:

· If there is a risk of harm to oneself or others.

Sudden Changes in Mental Status:

· Such as confusion, disorientation, or drastic changes in behavior or personality.

Non-responsiveness:

· A lack of response to stimuli, especially after use of substances or in conjunction with mental health symptoms.

Self-Harm:

· Engaging in activities that cause physical harm, even if they do not express suicidal intent.