RESPONDING TO A MENTAL HEALTH EMERGENCY
Emergency situations don’t happen that often. But when they do occur, it is helpful to know how to respond immediately and effectively to a student in distress. A mental health emergency can include one or more of the following situations or observed behaviors.
- A suicidal attempt, gesture, threat or plan
- A homicidal attempt, gesture, threat or plan
- Aggressive or unmanageable behavior that poses a threat to self or others
- Loss of contact with reality
- Inability to care for oneself
Tips to utilize when confronted with an emergency situation
- Stay calm, to respond more effectively and to reduce the student’s anxiety or agitation
- If possible, provide a quiet, private place for the student to rest while further steps are taken
- Talk to the student in a clear, straight-forward manner
- If the student appears to be a danger to self or others, do not leave student alone
- Make arrangements for appropriate intervention or aid
Who to call when confronted with an emergency situation
You may consult with Counseling and Psychological Services counselor faculty at (415) 338-2208 during the following hours concerning the emergency situation: 8am-12 Noon and 1pm-5pm Monday through Friday.
You can walk the student to Counseling and Psychological Services for an emergency consultation or appointment during the hours of 8am-12Noon and 1pm-5pm Monday through Friday.
If the mental health emergency occurs after Counseling and Psychological Services Center is closed, call UPD at 911.
In the event of a mental health emergency that requires immediate attention because the student is unusually aggressive, unmanageable or a threat to self or others, call 911 which will connect you directly to UPD (university police).
