Crisis Services
ASERT does not offer crisis services through our Resource Center. If you or someone you love is experiencing mental health distress or thoughts of suicide please call or text 988 for support.
Managing a Mental Health Crisis: Direct Support Professionals
What should I do if the person I support is having a mental health crisis:
- The most important thing to do in a crisis is to TELL SOMEONE.
- Make sure they know to tell someone else that they are in crisis. They can help them to work on a plan to feel better if you, their DSP, is not with them.
- Tell them to start talking to a person they trust like a parent, friend, support staff, or doctor. Tell them to be honest with them and tell them about thoughts they’ve been having.
- If they need more help, they can talk to a professional by calling or texting the National Suicide Helpline at 9-8-8.
- If they need immediate help to stay safe, you should CALL 9-1-1.
how can I help prevent a mental health crisis?
It is helpful to plan how to handle a crisis before it happens.
Having a plan can help the person you support get through a mental health crisis more easily or even prevent a crisis from happening.
Their plan should include:
- A list of triggers that may cause a mental health crisis.
- Strategies to help them feel calm again.
- Phone numbers for trusted adults and emergency providers.
DSP’s or a mental health professional can help them create a mental health crisis plan. They can also help them to learn and practice skills for managing their emotions.
This information was developed by the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative (ASERT). For more information, please contact ASERT at 877-231-4244 or info@PAautism.org. ASERT is funded by the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations, PA Department of Human Services.