Crisis Support

It can be scary to think about experiencing a crisis, but planning ahead can make it easier to look after yourself. You might work with the Student Wellbeing and Disability Service to develop a safety plan which you can keep in a safe place. Having something written down that’s clear and easy to follow can help you recognise a crisis earlier, and access the help needed quickly.

There is no right or wrong way to plan ahead; it’s about making sure you are safe and that you get the right support.

You might find that your mood changes in relation to certain events or seasonal changes, and that as you start to approach crisis point you notice consistent warning signs that show you need support. You might notice you withdraw socially, you are sleeping less than you did before, you start thinking about what the world would be like without you in it or you have the first changes in sensation that you associate with hallucinations. Keeping note of these and sharing them with your support circle can help you avoid triggers, or if you find yourself triggered can help you get help as early as possible.

Some people might feel most comfortable talking to a health professional they already know, whereas others might prefer to go straight to A&E. Keeping note of who you’d like to get support from and how to get in touch with them will make this process easier. This is important when you’re not feeling well. You can think about a back-up option too, to ensure you have as many directions to turn as possible.

Do you have a certain person in your support network who you’d like to be involved in your care? A housemate who you’d like to accompany you to A&E, or a friend who you’d like to call the Mental Health Crisis Team for you? Is your named Trusted Contact someone you are happy for LIPA inform if you are experiencing a significant crisis? Defining who does what in advance helps take the pressure off you in an urgent situation and allows those around you to set boundaries and ensure they feel comfortable with their roles.

You can also use this time to discuss what language, communication methods and keywords are helpful or unhelpful for you. This can make sure you’re able to access care in a way that is actively supportive and avoids harm. You might find that there are some words or situations that are triggering for you; if someone closes the door to a room you’re in while trying to talk to you about getting help, does this make you feel trapped, for example? Do you prefer to communicate by writing things down in a text to a loved one, rather than a phone call? Setting this guidance out in advance will make the experience of accessing support as smooth as possible.

You might find that in the lead-up to a crisis your behaviour may change. This can be important to consider when planning for a crisis. You might notice that when you’re unwell you stop taking medication, or you might be more likely to engage in risky behaviours. Planning for these scenarios in advance will help you stay safe and reduce any potential harm to your physical wellbeing. It’s also a good idea to share these details with your support network.