If someone is experiencing a manic episode and is at risk of harming themselves or others, it's essential to act quickly to ensure their safety. Here are some steps you can take to get them emergency professional help:
Call emergency services: If you believe the situation is critical and immediate intervention is required, call the emergency number in your country (such as 911 in the United States). Describe the person's condition, mention that they are at risk of harm, and provide the address of their location.
Stay with them: If it's safe to do so, stay with the person until help arrives. This can offer support and reassurance, and it will help ensure their safety until professional assistance arrives.
Reach out to their support network: If you can, contact family members or close friends of the person who may be able to provide additional information about their condition or history. They might also be able to offer support and help in managing the situation.
Encourage them to talk to a professional: If the person is open to it and it's safe to do so, encourage them to contact their mental health professional or therapist for immediate support. Some individuals may have established crisis plans or emergency contacts with their mental health providers.
Utilize crisis hotlines: In many countries, there are crisis hotlines that provide immediate support for individuals in distress. Look up the appropriate crisis hotline for your region and share this information with the person in need. You can also call the hotline yourself to seek guidance on how to handle the situation.
Avoid confrontation: If the person is agitated or aggressive, try to remain calm and avoid escalating the situation. Use a non-threatening and non-confrontational approach to communicate with them.
Secure the environment: If there are any potentially dangerous objects or substances nearby, try to remove them from the immediate vicinity to reduce the risk of harm.
Remember, your safety and the safety of others should be a top priority. If you are unsure about how to handle the situation or if the person becomes highly agitated or violent, wait for professional help to arrive rather than putting yourself at risk.
After the immediate crisis is managed, the person should receive a comprehensive mental health evaluation and appropriate treatment from qualified mental health professionals to address their manic episode and overall well-being. Encourage them to follow up with a psychiatrist or mental health specialist for ongoing support and management of their condition.