CRISIS SUPPORT

Crisis situations often stem from multiple unaddressed issues with a person’s ability to exist comfortably in their environment. Whether you are in crisis, approaching crisis, or supporting someone in crisis — slow down, take a moment to sense what is happening in your body, and remember that you do not need to navigate this alone.

I need immediate crisis support.

Check out crisis lines that do not work with police below.

PROJECT LETS PEER SUPPORT SERVICES:

1. Our intake form is currently closed.

2. Text 401-400-2905 for urgent support with psychiatric incarceration/involuntary hospitalization. Hours of operation are: Monday-Saturday, 10:00 AM EST-4:00 PM EST.
   

OTHER CRISIS RESOURCES:

• Create a safety plan or Psychiatric Advance Directive

• Peer Respite Centers

• Emergency Action for Panic Attacks

• Questions to Ask Before Giving Up

• Crisis Information: Important Stuff to Know Beyond Awareness

• The Project LETS Crisis Approach

I am supporting a friend or loved one in crisis.

The important part of helping a peer or loved one is to understand that you are there to offer support, guidance, resources, and care — but it is up to them to decide how and when they access support, and what type of support to access.

• Who determined the crisis? Many times, our own lack of skills, fears, internalized ableism & sanism can contribute to situations where we perceive to be a crisis. Be direct and transparent.

• Create a sanctuary and help meet basic needs: Has this person slept? Eaten? Taken drugs or new medications? Has something happened recently in their life? What kind of environment will be supportive?

• Honor resistance: If your friend or loved one does not want help, then be patient. Perhaps remind them of their options now and then, but try not to pressure them. If you are worried about their safety or that they are going to hurt themselves somehow, partner with them towards a collaborative response.

• Find a method of communication that works: Don’t force verbal communication or speaking.
  

POLICE & WELLNESS CHECKS:

• Involuntary hospitalization has been shown to increase the risk of suicide.

• Many community members who experience involuntary hospitalization view it as incarceration. Wellness checks and police involvement can be deadly, particularly for Black and Indigenous Disabled and Mad folks.
  

OTHER RESOURCES:

• Common Mistakes We Make Supporting Others & What to Do Differently

• What Stops us from Supporting? Barriers to Intervention

What happens in a psychiatric ward?

Resource coming soon.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES TO CHECK OUT:

• Fireweed Collective: Crisis Toolkit

• Project LETS Anti-Carceral Safety Plan