The Crucial Role of Crisis Care

Life is unpredictable, and health emergencies can strike at any moment, demanding immediate attention and decisive action. In the realm of holistic health management, crisis care holds a paramount position- being prepared for emergencies is not just a matter of chance, but it’s also a proactive approach towards safeguarding your health. Crisis care involves the swift and efficient response to acute health crises, encompassing a range of situations from severe injuries to sudden illnesses. Central to crisis preparedness is crafting a comprehensive emergency plan. Begin by identifying some crucial information:

Consider making a plan for you and your loved ones by mapping out the nearest emergency rooms and trauma centers, familiarizing yourself with their locations and routes. Periodically review and update your emergency plan, especially if there are changes in your health status, medications, or contact information. It is very important to stay informed about any new healthcare facilities or emergency services in your area.

For those with specific health conditions or ongoing medical treatments, keeping a medical ID or carrying pertinent medical information can be life-saving during emergencies. For more information on setting up a medical ID on your cellphone device, check these resources here:

It is also important to understand your insurance coverage for emergency services as it ensures financial preparedness during critical times. Having an emergency fund in place can also serve as a financial cushion during unexpected events, offering further stability and peace of mind.

Collaborative Crisis Management

Effective crisis care involves collaborative efforts among various healthcare providers. Ensure your primary care physician is informed about any ongoing treatments or medications. In critical situations, seamless communication between emergency healthcare providers and your health team facilitates informed decision-making and comprehensive care delivery.

Recovery isn’t solely confined to the resolution of the crisis, and post-crisis support from your health team is crucial. This includes rehabilitation, ongoing treatment, and psychological support to address any residual effects or emotional trauma stemming from the crisis. For more on building your health team, check out our article right here. 

Mental Health & Crisis Response

Mental health encompasses a broad spectrum of conditions, from anxiety and depression to more severe disorders like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. These conditions can impact every facet of an individual’s life, affecting emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. The stigma associated with mental health often leads to silence and reluctance in seeking help, exacerbating the challenges faced by those experiencing mental health issues. Crisis response in mental health is a pivotal aspect of providing timely and effective support to individuals in acute distress. It involves immediate intervention and support for individuals experiencing severe emotional or psychological crises, including suicidal ideation, severe anxiety, psychosis, or acute trauma.

Over the years, various crisis response resources have been developed to provide immediate support and intervention for individuals in distress. For a list of resources mentioned, check the “Mental Health & Crisis Resources” section of this article. We also have an “Orlando Mental Health & Crisis Resources” section below for those who are local to Central Florida.

  • Hotlines and Helplines: Services like suicide prevention hotlines, crisis intervention hotlines, and mental health support lines offer immediate access to trained professionals who provide guidance, support, and resources to individuals in crisis.
  • Mobile Crisis Teams: These specialized teams, often comprising mental health professionals and counselors, provide on-site assistance and intervention during acute mental health crises.
  • Online and Text-Based Support: Crisis text lines and online chat services offer accessible support for individuals uncomfortable with speaking over the phone or seeking anonymity.
  • Emergency Services and Hospitals: Hospitals and emergency rooms provide critical care for individuals experiencing severe mental health crises, ensuring immediate evaluation and intervention.

Mental Health & Crisis Resources

These resources serve as critical lifelines for individuals experiencing mental health crises, offering immediate support, guidance, and intervention. They are designed to ensure that help is accessible and available to anyone in need. For a list of crisis resources in Orlando (Central Florida), check the “Orlando Crisis Resources” section below.

Suicide Prevention Hotlines:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Available 24/7, this hotline provides confidential support, intervention, and resources for individuals in crisis or those supporting someone in distress. (Dial 988)
  • Crisis Text Line: A text-based crisis support service available 24/7, allowing individuals to text with trained crisis counselors. Text “HELLO” to 741741 in the United States.

Mental Health Crisis Hotlines:

  • SAMHSA National Helpline: Offers treatment referral and information for mental health and substance use disorders. (1-800-662-HELP)
  • The Trevor Project: Specifically dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth, providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services. (1-866-488-7386)

Emergency Services:

  • 911 (United States): For immediate assistance in life-threatening emergencies, including medical, mental health, or safety concerns.

Crisis Response Apps and Online Platforms:

  • Calm Harm: A mobile app designed to help individuals manage self-harm urges and thoughts.
  • My3: An app that assists in creating a network of supporters to reach out to in times of crisis.
  • 7 Cups: An online platform providing free emotional support and therapy through trained listeners and licensed therapists.
  • American Foundation For Suicide Prevention: The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is a voluntary health organization that gives those affected by suicide a nationwide community empowered by research, education and advocacy to take action against this leading cause of death.

Local Crisis Centers and Community Resources:

  • Local Mental Health Crisis Centers: Many regions have dedicated crisis centers that offer immediate assessment, intervention, and support.
  • Community Health Clinics or Mental Health Organizations: These often provide crisis intervention services or can direct individuals to appropriate resources.

Supportive Online Communities:

  • Reddit Communities: Subreddits such as r/SuicideWatch and r/mentalhealth serve as peer-support platforms for individuals going through crises or seeking advice and support.

Orlando Mental Health & Crisis Resources

Mental Health Crisis Services:

Emergency Services and Hospitals:

Online and Text-Based Support:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Available 24/7, this hotline provides confidential support, intervention, and resources for individuals in crisis or those supporting someone in distress. (Dial 988)
  • Crisis Text Line: A text-based crisis support service available 24/7, allowing individuals to text with trained crisis counselors. Text “HELLO” to 741741 in the United States.

LGBTQ+ Support:

  • Zebra Coalition: Provides support and services to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing crisis or homelessness. Call: 407-228-1446.

Substance Abuse and Addiction Resources:

Community and Non-Profit Organizations:

  • NAMI Greater Orlando: Offers support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness. Call: 407-253-1900.
  • 211 Helpline: United Way 211 is a free 24-hour non-emergency helpline that connects people with human and social service agencies in Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties. Call: 211.

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More Resources

Resources From Dr. Brooke Stuart / Let Go & Grow®

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