Practical steps in a crisis

When a crisis hits, it can be hard to think clearly. Having a few simple, practical steps in mind, before or during a difficult moment, can make a real difference.

What it is

A crisis is a moment where things feel too much to manage alone - this could be a mental health crisis, a safety concern, a sudden loss, or an emergency involving yourself or someone close to you. In these moments, the goal isn't to solve everything at once. It's to get through the immediate moment safely and connect with the right support.

Signs to notice

• Feeling overwhelmed, panicked, or unable to think clearly.
• Thoughts of harming yourself or someone else.
• Someone close to you showing signs of severe distress, confusion, or danger.
• A sudden, frightening change in circumstances - an accident, violence, or a medical emergency.
• A sense that you or someone else is no longer safe.

What helps

• Focus on the next few minutes, not the whole situation. Ask yourself: what is one safe, simple thing I can do right now?
• If you're with someone in crisis, stay calm, stay present, and avoid arguing or trying to fix everything at once - your steady presence matters most.
• Remove immediate danger where you safely can, such as access to means of harm, and get to a safe, calmer space if possible.
• Call for help early rather than waiting to see if things improve on their own - reaching out is not an overreaction.
• If you're supporting someone, don't leave them alone if you're worried about their immediate safety; stay with them or ensure someone else can.
• Afterwards, allow time to process what happened - crisis moments are draining, and it's normal to need rest and support once the immediate danger has passed.
• Follow up with professional support in the days after a crisis, even once things feel calmer.

When to reach out for help

Reach out immediately if you or someone else is in danger, having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or experiencing a medical emergency. Don't wait for things to feel unbearable before asking for help - earlier is always better.

Getting help in South Africa

• SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393.
• SAPS emergency: 10111; Ambulance: 10177.
• GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428.
• Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors are available to support you before, during, and after a crisis - reaching out is a strong, capable step, not a last resort.

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If you or someone else is in immediate danger, reach out now. SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. SAPS 10111, ambulance 10177, GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428.