Practice Guidelines: Core Elements in Responding to Mental Health Crises

Developed by a diverse expert panel including individuals with mental illness experience, providers, public officials, and advocates; this guideline defines appropriate responses to mental health crises across various situations and environments. Individuals experiencing mental health crises may encounter intervention and help from an array of professionals and nonprofessionals, including: family members, peers, health care personnel, police, advocates, clergy, and educators among others. Their approaches in assisting those in crises often vary widely, creating the potential for ineffectual responses.