As a therapist, it is essential to handle a situation like this with sensitivity and care. If a client comes to the appointment expressing thoughts of self-harm or having engaged in potentially harmful behaviors, the first priority is to ensure their safety and well-being. Here's what I would do in this scenario:
Stay Calm and Supportive: Remain calm and composed while talking to the client. It is important not to panic or show distress as it may escalate the client's emotions.
Assess for Immediate Risk: Ask the client about the specifics of the situation and assess the level of immediate risk. If there is an immediate threat to their life, you may need to take immediate action to ensure their safety, such as contacting emergency services or involving someone close to the client, like a family member or friend, who can help.
Listen Actively: Let the client express their feelings and thoughts openly. Active listening and non-judgmental support can help them feel heard and understood.
Explore Feelings: Gently explore the reasons behind their actions and their emotional state. Understanding their feelings and struggles can help you provide appropriate support.
Address the Physical Concerns: If the client took a dangerous amount of medication, encourage them to seek medical attention immediately. You can offer to help them contact a healthcare professional or accompany them to the nearest hospital if needed.
Safety Plan: Collaborate with the client to develop a safety plan to address their immediate concerns and prevent further harm. A safety plan may include contacting a crisis hotline, identifying supportive people in their life, and outlining coping strategies for difficult emotions.
Discuss Death if Necessary: If the client brings up the topic of death, it is important to handle it with compassion and empathy. You can gently explore their thoughts and feelings around death and suicide, but avoid encouraging or normalizing these thoughts. If the situation becomes overwhelming, it might be beneficial to seek the support of a mental health professional with experience in crisis intervention.
Encourage Professional Help: Emphasize the importance of seeking professional help for ongoing support. Offer to assist them in finding a mental health specialist or counselor who can work with them through their struggles.
Follow-Up: Arrange for a follow-up session or check-in to see how the client is doing after the initial crisis has passed. This will show that you care about their well-being and are invested in their recovery.
Remember, as a therapist, you are not expected to handle crisis situations alone. It is crucial to involve appropriate medical and emergency services if necessary, and collaborate with other mental health professionals to ensure the client's safety and well-being.