What Is A Mental Health Emergency

When a crisis strikes, it doesn’t always look like a broken bone or a physical injury. Sometimes, it’s invisible – but that doesn’t make it any less urgent. In the Greater Houston area, 35% of adults experiencing homelessness reported suffering from severe mental illness. That number surpasses the national average of 26% and offers a sobering glimpse into the emotional and psychological distress gripping vulnerable communities.

A mental health emergency is any situation in which an individual’s behavior or state of mind puts them or others at immediate risk of harm. It may involve suicidal thoughts, psychosis, severe disorientation, extreme emotional distress, or dangerous behavior triggered by a mental health condition. These emergencies often escalate quickly and require immediate intervention from medical professionals, crisis teams, or emergency responders.

Unlike chronic or long-term mental health conditions that may be managed through regular therapy or medication, a mental health emergency is an acute, unpredictable, and potentially life-threatening condition.

At SUN Behavioral Health Houston, we know recognizing a mental health crisis can mean saving a life. That’s what we’re talking about today.

Types of Mental Health Emergencies and Their Signs

Mental health emergencies don’t always follow the same single pattern. They can emerge suddenly, escalate rapidly, and take many different forms. What they do have in common, however, is the need for immediate attention and intervention – not only to ensure safety, but to connect individuals with the critical support they need to stabilize fully.

Here are the most common types of mental health emergencies and what they might look like in real life:

Suicidal Ideation or Suicide Attempts

One of the most urgent mental health crises involves thoughts or actions related to suicide. This includes:

• Expressing a desire to die or to "disappear"
• Making threats of suicide
• Writing goodbye letters or giving away possessions
• Actively planning or attempting to end one’s life

These signs are never to be ignored. Even if the person insists they’re not serious, voicing suicidal ideation often indicates overwhelming emotional pain and a loss of hope. It’s crucial to intervene quickly and involve professionals who can assess the risk and provide emergency care.

Psychotic Episodes

Psychosis is a break from reality that may involve:

• Visual or auditory hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't there)
• Delusional thinking or paranoia
• Incoherent speech or behavior that doesn’t make sense
• Severe agitation or fearfulness without cause

During a psychotic episode, individuals may be terrified, disoriented, or unable to care for themselves. Without help, they may accidentally harm themselves or others. Whether related to schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance use, or a medical condition, psychosis is a medical emergency.

Self-Harm or Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI)

Self-harming behaviors – such as cutting, burning, or hitting oneself – are not always suicidal in nature, but they are serious cries for help. People who engage in NSSI often feel:

• Numb and desperate to feel something
• Overwhelmed and in need of release
• Trapped in their trauma, shame, or emotional overload

Even when there’s no intent to die, self-harm can lead to accidental injury or escalate into suicidal behavior. Immediate support and therapeutic intervention are essential to break this cycle.

Severe Panic or Anxiety Attacks

Panic attacks can come on suddenly and may include:

• Rapid heart rate, chest pain, and shortness of breath
• Trembling, dizziness, and nausea
• Fear of “going crazy” and losing control
• A sense of detachment from reality or surroundings (derealization)

In extreme cases, panic attacks mimic the symptoms of a heart attack, leading people to seek ER care. When someone is unable to calm down, breathe normally, or regain control, especially if panic is recurring or linked to trauma, it can be classified as a mental health emergency.

Violent, Aggressive, or Threatening Behavior

Outbursts of aggression, especially when out of character, can signal a dangerous tipping point. This may include:

• Yelling or making threats
• Destroying property
• Physical violence toward others
• Carrying weapons or acting in a menacing way

These episodes may stem from untreated mental health conditions, severe stress, or psychosis. The priority in these cases is safety for the person in crisis and those around them. Emergency responders or crisis intervention teams are often needed to de-escalate the situation and connect the individual to psychiatric care.

Extreme Disorientation or Catatonia

When someone seems completely out of touch with their environment – unable to communicate, move, or respond normally – it may be a sign of:

• Catatonia or a catatonic stupor
• Dissociation from trauma
• Neurological and psychiatric breakdown

They may wander aimlessly, appear frozen in place, or respond with blank stares and repetition. These behaviors can be frightening to witness, but they reflect an internal collapse. Immediate psychiatric evaluation is often helpful to determine the underlying cause and begin stabilization.

Each of these emergencies is serious and time-sensitive, but also treatable if the signs are recognized and action is taken. Mental health emergencies often unfold quietly before they erupt. Unlike physical injuries, psychological crises don’t always come with visible wounds, but oftentimes the warning signs are there. Recognizing these early can mean the difference between timely intervention and ultimate tragedy.

What to Do in the Event of a Mental Health Emergency

When a mental health emergency occurs, immediate action is needed, and there often isn’t time to search for answers about what to do. Knowing how to support yourself or a loved one during a crisis can make all the difference.

While every situation is different, following certain strategies can help you stay grounded, protect everyone’s safety, and connect with the right support. Here are 5 steps to respond effectively in the moment.

Assess the Urgency and Call 911 if Necessary

During a mental health emergency, the first thing to do is evaluate the situation. Is the person at immediate risk of harming themselves or others? Are they experiencing symptoms of psychosis? If the answer is yes, it’s imperative to call 911. When calling 911, be clear that there’s a mental health emergency and request responders trained in crisis intervention.

Go to an Emergency Department or Psychiatric Hospital

If someone is experiencing a mental health crisis that requires immediate care, taking them to the nearest emergency department or psychiatric hospital could help. These facilities are equipped to provide urgent evaluation, crisis stabilization, and connect individuals to ongoing mental health services.

Call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

If you or a loved one is in emotional distress or experiencing a mental health crisis, calling the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can provide immediate support. The lifeline connects you with trained crisis counselors who can help de-escalate the situation, offer guidance, and refer you to local resources.

For those who prefer not to call, there’s also a Crisis Text Line available at 741741.

Offer Emotional Support

During a mental health emergency, staying calm can be incredibly grounding. Listen without judgment and reassure your loved one that they’re not alone. Be patient and ensure they feel heard and validated.

Remove Harmful Items

When there’s a risk of self-harm or suicide, it’s important to remove any items that could be used to cause harm. Do this calmly and discreetly to avoid escalating the situation. Creating a safe physical environment helps reduce the immediate risk and allows time to seek professional help.

Getting Help for a Mental Health Emergency

If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health emergency, immediate help is available. Recognizing the signs and acting swiftly can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and beginning healing.

At SUN Behavioral Health Houston, we solve unmet needs by offering 24/7 mental health crisis care services for adults and adolescents. Our dedicated team provides support for a range of urgent needs, such as suicidal or homicidal thoughts, self-injury threats, psychiatric stabilization, and substance use disorders. Our facility is equipped for rapid assessments and can offer admission in 30 minutes or less. Remember, you are not alone. Reaching out is a courageous and important step to recovery. Call us today at (713) 796-2273 to get the help you deserve.