What to Do in a Mental Health Crisis in New Hampshire

Short answer: if someone may be in danger of harming themselves or others, call 911. For urgent mental health support, call or text 988, or call the New Hampshire Rapid Response Access Point at 833-710-6477, which can send a mobile crisis team.

Crisis resources in New Hampshire

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org, 24/7

• NH Rapid Response Access Point: 833-710-6477, phone support and mobile crisis teams

• 911 or the nearest emergency department: for immediate danger or medical emergencies

• 211 NH: connects people with local services, including substance use support

Signs of a crisis

• Talking about wanting to die or having a plan

• Severe agitation, confusion or losing touch with reality

• Inability to care for oneself

• Threats or aggressive behavior

• Overdose or serious self-harm

How to help someone in crisis

• Stay with them and stay calm

• Ask directly about suicide

• Remove access to firearms, medications and other dangerous items if safe to do so

• Call 988, Rapid Response or 911

After a crisis

A follow-up with a psychiatrist soon after an emergency visit or crisis is important. Bring discharge paperwork and medication lists. Creating a written safety plan, including warning signs, coping steps and contacts, can help prevent future crises.

Outpatient care is not emergency care

Psych Nashua is an outpatient practice and cannot respond to emergencies in real time. If you are in crisis, please use the resources above.

Creating a safety plan

A safety plan is a short written document made with a clinician. It lists personal warning signs, coping strategies you can use on your own, people and places that provide distraction, people you can ask for help, professional and crisis contacts, and steps to make the environment safer. Keeping it on your phone means it is available when it is needed most.

Frequently asked questions

Can I call 988 for someone else?

Yes. Counselors also support worried family and friends.

For ongoing care after a crisis, contact Psych Nashua to schedule a psychiatric evaluation.

This article is general information, not medical advice. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 or call 911. Psych Nashua is an outpatient psychiatry practice at 215 South Broadway, Unit 129, Salem, NH (603-600-8330).