A crisis management plan is an essential tool for psychiatric providers to ensure patient safety during acute mental health challenges, especially when providers are unavailable. This article provides guidance on creating a plan that empowers patients with clear steps, reduces anxiety, and offers structured support through emergency contact information, local resources, self-help strategies, and safety measures.
The Importance of a Crisis Plan for Patients
As a psychiatric provider, ensuring patient safety extends beyond your available hours. A crisis plan serves as a contingency for moments when patients face acute mental health challenges and you cannot be immediately reached.
The purpose of a crisis plan is to:
- Empower patients by equipping them with clear steps and resources to manage distress independently when needed.
- Ensure safety by providing access to emergency services, crisis hotlines, and support systems tailored to their needs.
- Reduce anxiety by helping patients feel supported by having a structured approach to follow during high-stress situations.
This plan is not just for emergencies but is also a critical component of proactive care, teaching patients how to access help and maintain stability when they feel overwhelmed. It’s meant to provide a plan for how you’ll approach a patient crisis.
What to Include in Your Crisis Contingency Plan
When you’re unavailable, a well-crafted contingency plan ensures patients have access to the support they need during a crisis. Consider including:
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Emergency Contact Information:
- National hotlines (e.g., 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Crisis Text Line).
- Local mobile crisis units or crisis stabilization centers.
- Rula’s dedicated 24/7 crisis support line
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Hospital and Emergency Services:
- Nearest psychiatric emergency room or general emergency department.
- Instructions for calling 911 and stating it is a mental health emergency.
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Community Resources:
- Local mental health clinics or walk-in crisis services.
- Peer support organizations (e.g., NAMI chapters).
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Self-Help Strategies:
- Grounding techniques, mindfulness exercises, or journaling prompts.
- Apps or tools for managing anxiety and distress (e.g., Calm, Headspace).
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Trusted Support Contacts:
- Encourage patients to identify a friend, family member, or caregiver to call for emotional support.
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Medication and Safety Plans:
- Reminders about the proper use of prescribed medications.
- Recommendations to remove or secure harmful items if necessary.
Including some or all of these elements in your plan ensures patients have actionable steps and reliable resources to manage crises safely and effectively.
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