Navigating a Mental Health Crisis: Essential Guidance for Black Families
Psychology for Black Girls ·
Understanding the Crisis Moment
No parent ever feels prepared for the moment when their daughter is in crisis. Whether she expresses frightening thoughts, exhibits distressing behavior, or you discover something alarming, the questions can be overwhelming: Is this an emergency? Who should I contact? What will happen next? Will she be treated with care?
For many Black families, these concerns are compounded by fears of police involvement, judgment, or misunderstanding. This guide aims to provide clear answers to common questions, empowering you to act swiftly and confidently when it matters most.
Recognizing a Mental Health Crisis
A mental health crisis occurs when a person's emotions, thoughts, or behaviors put them at risk of harm or leave them unable to cope. For a girl or teen, this may include:
Expressing a desire to die or not wanting to be here.
Having a plan or means to harm herself.
Engaging in self-harm that worsens or requires medical attention.
Experiencing sudden, severe behavioral changes, such as extreme agitation or confusion.
Being unable to eat, sleep, or function for extended periods.
Experiencing a severe panic or emotional state that she cannot calm down from.
Trust your instincts. If something feels urgent, treat it as such.
When to Call 988 or 911
Contact 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, when your daughter is experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or a mental health crisis but is not in immediate physical danger. You can call for her, with her, or seek guidance. Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7, and you can also chat online at 988lifeline.org.
Call 911 or head to the nearest emergency room if she has harmed herself, has taken an overdose, possesses a weapon, or you cannot ensure her safety. If you're uncertain, it's always better to reach out than to wait.
Addressing Concerns About Police Involvement
Many Black families worry that calling 988 will result in police involvement. It's important to know that 988 was designed to provide mental health support, not a law enforcement response. Most calls to 988 are handled through phone, text, or chat, with emergency services only involved in critical situations where someone's life is at risk.
In some regions, 988 can connect families to mobile crisis teams—mental health professionals who can come to your home. Check what resources are available in your area ahead of time.
What to Do While Waiting for Help
While waiting for help, it’s crucial to stay with your daughter. Here are some steps you can take:
Remain calm and speak gently. You don't need perfect words; simple reassurances like "I'm here" and "We're going to get through this together" can be comforting.
Listen more than you talk. Allow her to express her feelings without interruption.
Remove any items she could use to harm herself, including medications, sharp objects, and firearms. If there is a gun in the home, secure it or remove it entirely.
What to Expect in the Emergency Room
Visiting the ER for a mental health crisis can be daunting. Knowing what to expect can alleviate some anxiety. Your daughter will likely first see a triage nurse, followed by a doctor. If she requires medical attention for an injury, that will be prioritized. A mental health professional will then conduct an evaluation to assess her safety and needs.
Be prepared for potentially long wait times, especially in busy hospitals. Bring a phone charger, a list of her medications, her insurance card, and something comforting, like a favorite hoodie or headphones.
After evaluation, the team may recommend various options, including a safety plan for going home, outpatient programs, or a short inpatient stay. Be aware that in some cases, a hospital can hold someone for evaluation, even against their will, depending on state laws. Always ask the staff to clarify your daughter's rights.
Advocating for Your Daughter
Black girls are often misperceived as older or more defiant than they truly are, which can lead to their distress being misinterpreted. Here’s how you can advocate effectively:
Speak clearly and calmly about her age, history, diagnoses, and what led to this moment.
Ask questions about the proposed plan, alternatives, and who will be making decisions.
Request a mental health professional's involvement if one has not been engaged.
Ask for a patient advocate or social worker if your concerns are not being addressed.
Document everything, including names, times, and information provided.
Remember, advocating for your daughter is not being difficult; it’s your responsibility as her parent.
Supporting Her After the Crisis
The period following a crisis is critical for healing. Research indicates that this time can be a higher-risk period, so follow-up care is essential.
Schedule follow-up care promptly, ideally within a week of the ER visit.
Collaborate with her to create a safety plan, outlining warning signs, coping strategies, and crisis contacts.
Continue to secure lethal means, keeping medications locked and firearms out of the home.
Establish gentle, predictable routines for sleep, meals, and activities to provide stability.
Check in with her without hovering, allowing her space while letting her know you are available.
Communicate with her school to ensure she receives any necessary support during her return.
Prioritizing Your Own Well-Being
Watching your child struggle can be emotionally taxing. Feelings of guilt, fear, anger, or grief are common. It's vital to lean on trusted family, friends, or your faith community. Consider seeking support for yourself through a therapist or a parent support group. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it enables you to be present for her.
Preparation is Key
If your daughter has faced challenges before, or if you simply want to be prepared, take proactive steps now. Save 988 in your phone and hers, learn about local mobile crisis teams, and keep a list of her medications and providers handy. Discuss as a family who to contact in case of an emergency. Preparation can help make a difficult moment more manageable.
Finding Ongoing Support
A crisis can serve as a turning point toward healing, especially with the right support. Psychology for Black Girls connects families with vetted Black therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists who understand the unique experiences of Black girls. Explore our directory to find the ongoing care that your daughter deserves.
