In the realm of mental health, preparation is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. A mental health crisis can arise unexpectedly and escalate quickly. Whether it’s severe anxiety, suicidal ideation, a psychotic episode, or emotional distress following trauma, knowing how to respond can make a critical difference. That’s where a mental health crisis plan comes in.

Just as schools and workplaces have fire drills or emergency evacuation protocols, individuals and organizations should have clear, written plans in place for responding to mental health emergencies. A mental health crisis plan is a structured document that outlines how to respond effectively, safely, and compassionately when someone experiences a mental health crisis.

Whether you’re an individual with a history of mental health challenges, a family member, a caregiver, a school official, or an employer, understanding what a strong crisis plan includes is essential. Here’s a comprehensive look at what your mental health crisis plan should contain—and why each element matters.

 

1. Personal Identification and Medical History

 

The first component of a solid mental health crisis plan is a detailed personal information section. This includes the individual’s full name, date of birth, contact information, and key medical history. This part ensures that if the person in crisis is unable to communicate clearly, responders can access important background information quickly.

This section should list:

• Diagnosed mental health conditions (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia)
• Current medications and dosages
• Allergies (especially medication-related)
• History of hospitalizations or previous crises
• Any co-occurring physical health conditions

This information is especially important in emergencies where medications may be administered or when someone is admitted to a hospital or psychiatric facility.

 

2. Warning Signs and Triggers

 

Everyone’s mental health journey is different, and so are their crisis triggers. This section outlines early warning signs that a crisis may be developing, so the individual or others can take proactive steps before the situation escalates.

Examples of warning signs might include:

• Withdrawing from social contact
• Sudden mood swings or irritability
• Difficulty sleeping for multiple nights
• Talking about hopelessness, death, or self-harm
• Stopping medication or therapy abruptly

It’s also helpful to list known personal triggers—such as anniversaries of trauma, financial stress, or specific interpersonal conflicts—so loved ones or professionals can approach these moments with heightened awareness.

By recognizing the signs early, you increase the chances of de-escalating the crisis before it becomes dangerous.

 

3. Emergency Contacts and Support Network

 

A crisis plan must include a clear, up-to-date list of trusted people who can be contacted during a mental health emergency. These should be individuals who understand the situation, can offer calm support, and know how to intervene or communicate with professionals if needed.

Your list might include:

• Family members or close friends
• Therapists or psychiatrists
• Case managers or social workers
• Peer support specialists

Each contact should include their full name, phone number, relationship to the individual, and any specific instructions (e.g., “Call only in severe crises,” or “Good with calming the individual down”).

Be sure to get permission from everyone on this list and ensure they understand their role before including them in the plan.

 

4. Preferred Intervention Strategies

 

One of the most empowering aspects of a mental health crisis plan is the section that outlines how the person wants to be helped during a crisis. It can be extremely disorienting to lose control of your thoughts or emotions, so having a personalized plan for what helps and what harms can guide responders.

This section might include:

• Calming techniques that work (e.g., listening to music, deep breathing, walking)
• Specific things not to do (e.g., don’t yell, don’t touch me without asking)
• Whether the person wants to avoid hospitalization if possible
• Preferred crisis stabilization units or hospitals
• Whether they want a support person present during interventions

The goal is to treat the person with dignity and respect while keeping them safe. These preferences are particularly useful for mobile crisis teams, school counselors, or first responders.

 

5. Action Steps During a Crisis

 

This section provides a step-by-step guide of what to do during the actual crisis. This might differ based on the severity of the episode, but it gives a structure to follow instead of panicking or acting without direction.

Sample action steps might include:

1. Move the person to a quiet, safe space.
2. Check for immediate danger to self or others.
3. Call a trusted emergency contact.
4. Use de-escalation techniques (speak calmly, offer water, limit stimuli).
5. Call a local mental health crisis line or mobile unit.
6. If necessary, transport the person to a psychiatric hospital or call 911.

If 911 must be called, this section should include a request for officers trained in Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) protocols to respond, as they are trained to handle mental health situations nonviolently.

 

6. Post-Crisis Support Plan

 

Crisis planning doesn’t stop when the emergency ends. The aftermath of a mental health crisis can be just as critical for healing and long-term stability. This section should outline how to support recovery after a crisis has been stabilized.

Include:

• Who will follow up with the individual (therapist, case manager, etc.)
• Medication or therapy adjustments to consider
• Temporary work or school accommodations
• Steps for self-care and reintegration into daily routines
• Scheduled debrief with trusted contacts or professionals

A clear recovery plan reduces shame and isolation and reinforces the idea that mental health is a journey—not a failure.

 

7. Legal and Documentation Tools

 

Finally, your crisis plan should include any legal documents that may be needed in an emergency. This could include:

• Psychiatric advance directives
• HIPAA release forms (to allow professionals to speak with designated family or friends)
• Power of attorney for health decisions
• Insurance cards or identification copies

These documents ensure that decisions can be made quickly and ethically, especially if hospitalization is required or the person is unable to advocate for themselves.

 

In a nutshell: Proactive Planning Saves Lives

 

Mental health crises can be frightening, but having a structured plan in place brings clarity to chaos. A crisis plan communicates preferences, reduces risk, and builds a safety net of trusted people and practices. It’s not just for people already diagnosed with a condition—anyone can benefit from having one.

By proactively creating and regularly updating your mental health crisis plan, you empower yourself, your loved ones, and your community to respond to emergencies with compassion, care, and effectiveness.

Mental health deserves the same level of preparation and respect as any other aspect of well-being. Start your plan today—and encourage others to do the same.