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Mental Health First Aid Guide

Learn how to support someone experiencing a mental health crisis

⚠️ IMPORTANT: This guide is NOT a substitute for professional help.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or 911.

This information is for educational purposes and based on evidence from NAMI, SAMHSA, and Mental Health First Aid USA.

What is Mental Health First Aid?

Mental Health First Aid is the help given to someone developing a mental health problem, experiencing a worsening of an existing condition, or in a mental health crisis. Just like physical first aid, it's the initial support provided until professional help arrives or the crisis resolves.

You can make a difference. With the right knowledge, you can provide crucial support during a mental health emergency.

🆘 Recognizing a Mental Health Crisis

🗣️ What They Say

  • "I can't take this anymore"
  • "Everyone would be better off without me"
  • "I don't want to be here"
  • "I feel like I'm losing my mind"
  • "Nothing matters anymore"

👀 What You See

  • Extreme mood swings
  • Unable to perform daily tasks
  • Withdrawing from people/activities
  • Changes in eating or sleeping
  • Increased substance use

🚨 Immediate Danger Signs

  • Talking about suicide or death
  • Looking for ways to end their life
  • Expressing feelings of hopelessness
  • Talking about being a burden
  • Giving away possessions

The ALGEE Action Plan

1

Approach & Assess

How to approach:

  • Find a private, safe place to talk
  • Be calm and non-threatening
  • Remove distractions (turn off TV, put away phones)
  • Respect personal space
  • Ask: "I've noticed you seem different lately. Is everything okay?"
2

Listen Non-Judgmentally

Active listening means:

  • Give them your full attention
  • Don't interrupt or offer quick solutions
  • Avoid saying "I know how you feel"
  • Don't minimize their experience
  • Use phrases like: "That sounds really difficult" or "I'm here for you"
3

Give Reassurance

Provide support:

  • "You're not alone in this"
  • "What you're feeling is real"
  • "This is not your fault"
  • "Treatment works and recovery is possible"
  • "I'm here to support you"
4

Encourage Professional Help

Suggest resources:

  • Therapist or counselor
  • Primary care doctor
  • Mental health hotline (988)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Offer to help them make an appointment
5

Encourage Self-Help

Support healthy coping:

  • Exercise and physical activity
  • Maintaining sleep routines
  • Eating regular, healthy meals
  • Staying connected with others
  • Avoiding alcohol and drugs
6

Encourage Other Support

Build their network:

  • Family and friends
  • Support groups
  • Faith communities
  • Online peer communities
  • Remind them: reaching out is strength, not weakness

⚠️ If Someone is Suicidal

Immediate Steps:

1. Ask directly: "Are you thinking about suicide?" This does NOT increase risk.

2. Keep them safe: Remove any means of self-harm if possible.

3. Be there: Listen with empathy. Don't leave them alone if actively suicidal.

4. Help them connect: Call 988 together, text HELLO to 741741, or go to nearest ER.

5. Follow up: Check in after the crisis. Continued support matters.

📞 Crisis Resources

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, available 24/7

Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741

NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 (M-F 10am-10pm ET)

SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (24/7)

💚 Remember: Take Care of Yourself Too

Supporting someone in crisis can be emotionally draining. Make sure to:

  • Set boundaries - you can't fix everything
  • Seek your own support when needed
  • Practice self-care
  • Know your limits - professional help exists for a reason