Early Assessment and Support Alliance

Crisis Resources

EASA

Crisis Contacts

Call 911, go to the emergency room, or call the local crisis line services if you need them.

Anyone, anywhere can call the 24/7 Suicide Prevention & Crisis Hotline:
988
24/7 National Lifeline

About Crisis

  • By getting through the crisis successfully, you become stronger and more prepared for future situations.
  • With time, you can avoid or reduce crisis by being aware of your unique early warning signs and situations that trigger symptoms or crisis.
  • It is helpful to keep a small card with you at all times which lists warning signs, what to do and who to call.
  • Keep phone numbers for your counselor and for crisis services in several places
  • A person may be at risk for crisis when symptoms start to get better, as they confront losses they may have experienced.

Tips For Friends And Family

  • If a person talks about suicide or is doing things that are dangerous, take it seriously. Don’t be afraid to ask someone if they are thinking of taking their own life if you suspect it may be true.
  • Do not accept aggressive behavior. 
  • Write down specific observations and give them to the crisis staff.
  • Stay in touch with the counselor/doctor about what’s happening.
  • Call 911 if someone is getting aggressive or you feel unsafe.

What To Do When You Are In Crisis

  • Go someplace safe.
  • Reach out for support. Be with others who are positive and understanding.
  • Call your doctor, and/or local crisis team.
  • Follow your plan if you have one.
  • Break things down into small steps. One thing at a time.

EASA

What To Expect When You Call For Help

Local crisis teams. Each county has a crisis team which is responsible for assisting you in resolving potentially dangerous situations. These teams are available 24 hours per day, although each county has a slightly different approach. When you call, the person will talk you through the situation. Often crisis workers are focused on whether the person meets criteria for involuntary commitment.

For more information on involuntary commitment, visit the Disability Rights Oregon website at www.disabilityrightsoregon.org This standard can be hard to meet, and involuntary commitment is always viewed as a last resort. Counties may be able to arrange out-of-home respite or check-ins as an alternative.

EASA

Crisis Planning

The best thing to do is to work with your counselor from the very beginning to address possible crisis situations and to make sure that you have a very specific, written plan, with at least one, but preferably two, back-up plans. To begin with, you want to create a safe and healthy environment. The plan may address:

What you will do if symptoms get worse

What you will do in case of family conflict

Depending on the situation, your plan may also address what to do in case of escalating behavior due to alcohol/drug use, victimization by others, or inability to parent.

It is important to monitor medications and refill at least a week prior to running out.