10 Steps to Support Individuals Facing a Mental Health Crisis
Have you ever found yourself worrying about someone who seemed overwhelmed, anxious, or withdrawn, but you weren’t sure what to do next? You’re not alone. Each year, 1 in 5 Australians experience a mental health crisis, and many of us feel unprepared to help. Whether you’re supporting a loved one or someone you care for through the NDIS, knowing how to respond can make a world of difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 practical, compassionate steps you can take during a mental health crisis. Whether you’re a carer or an NDIS participant, this post is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and direction.
What Is a Mental Health Crisis and Why Support Matters
Common signs someone may be experiencing a mental health crisis
Are they suddenly avoiding contact? Talking about feeling hopeless? Acting out of character? These may be signs of a mental health crisis. Other indicators include panic attacks, extreme mood swings, or talk of self-harm.
In Australia, around 21.5% of people aged 16-85 experienced a mental health disorder in the past year, that’s about 4.3 million Australians.
Why timely support with mental health can reduce long-term impact
Early, compassionate support can prevent a crisis from becoming a long-term setback. It builds trust, reduces fear, and helps someone feel safe enough to accept help.
Step 1 – Stay Calm and Create a Safe Space
How your response can influence a mental health crisis
When someone is in crisis, your energy matters. Speak slowly, keep your tone warm, and make sure the environment is quiet and private. Let them know they’re not alone and that you’re here to listen.
Step 2 – Listen Without Trying to “Fix” Everything
What supportive listening looks like during a mental health crisis
Start with: “Would it help to talk about what’s going on?” Let them speak without interrupting. Listening can be more powerful than giving advice. Your role is to be present, not perfect.
Step 3 – Check Immediate Safety and Risk
When a mental health crisis requires urgent action
If someone is at risk of harm to themselves or others, call 000 or a mental health crisis line. Don’t hesitate. It’s okay to seek emergency support.
Step 4 – Encourage Professional Mental Health Support Services
How mental health support services can help during and after a crisis
Services like counselling, psychosocial coaching, and recovery planning can be life-changing. With the right help, people can feel understood and regain a sense of stability.
In many parts of Australia, a Crisis Assessment and Treatment (CAT) Team is available to respond to urgent mental health crises. These teams include mental health professionals who assess and support individuals experiencing acute psychiatric symptoms, often providing care in the home or community to avoid hospitalisation. If you or someone you care for is in immediate crisis, contacting your local CAT Team can be a critical first step.
At Selective Support, we offer one-on-one support coordination and psychosocial recovery coaching for NDIS participants. If you or someone you care for needs real, responsive help, we’re here to guide you with compassion.
Step 5 – Understand NDIS for Mental Health Support
How NDIS for mental health can support recovery after a crisis
NDIS funding can help participants access therapy, support coordination, and wellbeing programs. If you’re unsure how to use your plan, you’re not alone, many people feel lost at first.
How a Support Coordinator can reduce overwhelm
A dedicated Support Coordinator can explain your plan, connect you to the right services, and check in regularly. That’s what we do at Selective Support, we don’t just hand you a list, we walk with you step by step.
Step 6 – Help the Person Stay Connected, Not Isolated
Why connection matters during a mental health crisis
Feeling alone can make a crisis worse. Encourage connection through a text, a coffee, or a short walk. Little gestures go a long way. Help them feel seen, not judged.
“When someone is struggling, they don’t always need answers. Sometimes, they just need to know they’re not facing it alone.”
Step 7 – Support with Mental Health Routines and Structure
How small routines can support mental health recovery
People thrive on routine. Whether it’s a weekly art group or a morning walk, structure builds stability. Help them find small, meaningful activities that feel manageable.
Step 8 – Respect Choice, Control, and Dignity
Supporting independence during a mental health crisis
Avoid taking over. Ask, “What would you like to do next?” Empowerment builds trust and long-term confidence. It’s about walking beside them, not leading the way.
Step 9 – Look After Yourself as a Carer or Support Person
Why carers also need mental health support
It’s hard to pour from an empty cup. Check in with your own mental health. Join a support group, speak to a counsellor, or take a moment to rest. Your wellbeing matters too.
Step 10 – Plan for Ongoing Recovery Beyond the Crisis
Building long-term support with mental health services
Recovery doesn’t happen overnight. Create a plan that includes support coordination, therapy, and regular wellbeing check-ins.
You’re Not Alone: Help Is Just One Step Away
Supporting someone in a mental health crisis is deeply human work, and you don’t have to do it on your own. By listening with empathy, taking calm action, and connecting with the right supports, you can help someone feel safe, seen, and ready to take their next step.
Support doesn’t need to be perfect, it needs to be real. With the right tools and people around you, recovery is possible.
Ready to feel more confident navigating a mental health crisis or supporting someone you care for? Contact Selective Support today. We’re here to walk beside you, one step at a time.
What People Often Ask About Supporting Mental Health in a Crisis
1. What should I not say to someone in a mental health crisis?
Avoid dismissive phrases like “Just calm down,” “It’s all in your head,” or “Others have it worse.” These can feel invalidating. Instead, focus on listening and saying things like “I’m here for you” or “Would you like to talk?”
2. Can I use my NDIS plan to get mental health support during a crisis?
Yes, if you have a psychosocial disability, your NDIS plan can include supports like coordination, therapy, and recovery coaching. A Support Coordinator can help you understand and access these services quickly.
3. How do I know if it’s a mental health crisis or just a bad day?
A bad day might pass with rest or distraction. A mental health crisis involves intense distress, changes in behaviour, or risk of harm. Trust your instincts, if you’re worried, it’s okay to reach out for help.
