In normal times, as well as in crises, children and youth are vulnerable to a range of issues. This includes the impact of armed conflict on young people both as victims and perpetrators; lack of job opportunities and training, and disruption to social networks.
Biological factors such as hormonal changes and life events like divorce, bullying or moving can also trigger a crisis.
Preparing for a Crisis
Young people in crisis can feel helpless or hopeless. They may also have feelings of disempowerment and despair, especially during times of disaster or pandemic.
Establishing a connection with teens during a crisis is vital to build trust and encourage them to open up. Use active listening techniques like paraphrasing and summarizing to validate their concerns and show empathy. Providing confidentiality and assuring them their crisis is not going unnoticed can further bolster their comfort level.
Youth who are dealing with a behavioral health crisis need the right kind of care, which can often be provided in home-based and community settings. In addition, they should have access to a discharge plan with clear next steps to maintain safety and individualized resources for recovery. The goal is to avoid hospitalization and unnecessary incarceration, and instead provide the least restrictive level of care possible.
Helping a Child in a Crisis
Providing children and youth with the skills to recognize their own warning signs and seek help is key. This is especially important for youth with mental health conditions, who may be prone to having more frequent crises.
It is also crucial to be able to communicate effectively with your child during a crisis. Learn about your child or youth’s triggers and what helps them regain control, and try to keep in mind that a mental health crisis is often more than just an emotional outburst.
Talk to your local police department about whether they have officers trained in Crisis Intervention Training (CIT). These officers are specially trained to de-escalate an out of control individual.
Since most children and youth live with their families, it is critical that any crisis system they encounter considers family needs as well as those of the child or youth themselves. Some organizations, such as Youth MOVE National, are working to include youth and family members with lived experience in their systems for greater involvement and empowerment.
Helping a Teen in a Crisis
Teenagers in crisis often face unique challenges compared to adults. In addition to the normal stresses of adolescence, they may lose loved ones to Covid-19 or experience domestic violence, bullying, and other traumas that can lead to behavioral health problems. They are also at greater risk of losing a job or sustaining a serious injury.
During a crisis, it is important for teenagers to have access to mental health professionals that can provide them with the support and resources they need. In addition to offering support and reassuring teens that they are not alone, the right services can help them overcome their crisis and build the skills needed for long-term well-being.
For more severe crises, a crisis stabilization facility can be an option for adolescents. These facilities are more comprehensive than 23-hour observation units and the Living Room Model and offer longer-term residential treatment with increased therapy sessions, academic instruction, and safety for teenagers in need.
Helping a Young Adult in a Crisis
Youth in crisis are at higher risk of drug use, teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. They also face unique challenges in the workplace and often do not have a strong support system. This combination can lead to high levels of stress and isolation from peers and family, which can further exacerbate mental health problems.
Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach that includes focusing on the emotional and psychological needs of children, teens and young adults. While many organizations focus on addressing these issues, few prioritize empowering youth to be equal partners in the process.
Creating and maintaining healthy routines at home, school or work can help stabilize a young adult’s mental health during crisis. This will help them feel more in control and able to cope with the situation. This is especially important for socioeconomically disadvantaged or minority youth. Providing resources and helping them find long-term treatment can help them achieve recovery and success.