What characterizes a mental health crisis?

A mental health crisis is characterized by severe distress and functional impairment. This means that an individual is experiencing extreme emotional or psychological turmoil that significantly disrupts their ability to function in everyday life. During such a crisis, a person may feel overwhelmed by their emotions, unable to cope with daily responsibilities, or may even pose a risk to themselves or others.

In stark contrast, normal emotional changes are part of life and do not reach the level of severity typically found in a crisis. The idea of infrequency and minor occurrences doesn’t align with a crisis, which often arises suddenly and can be intense in nature. Lastly, the notion that a mental health crisis has no risks involved is misleading, as crises can carry significant risks, including potential harm to self or others, making it essential to address these situations with urgency and care. Therefore, recognizing that severe distress and functional impairment are key aspects helps to identify and address mental health crises effectively.