What to expect at the ER for a mental-health crisis
Emergency departments are for mental-health emergencies as much as physical ones. If you're thinking about ending your life, can't keep yourself safe, or you're with someone who can't, going to the ER — or calling 911 — is the right call. You don't need to have injured yourself to go.
Step by step
- 1
You check in and are triaged
A triage nurse asks briefly what's going on and how urgent it is. Say plainly if you're thinking about suicide or can't stay safe — mental-health emergencies are taken seriously, and being direct helps them prioritize you.
- 2
You wait to be seen
Waits can be long, especially if you're safe enough to wait. Bring a phone charger, a list of any medications, and, if you can, someone you trust. Tell staff if things get worse while you wait.
- 3
You're assessed
A nurse, and often an on-call doctor or psychiatry, talks with you about what's happening, your safety, and what would help. Be as honest as you can — they can only help with what they know.
- 4
You leave with a plan
Most people go home the same day with a safety plan and a referral or follow-up. Sometimes a short admission is offered if that's safest. Coming in voluntarily does not mean you'll be 'locked up' — that only happens in specific, legally-defined situations, which staff would explain.
They’ll ask
- Whether you're thinking about suicide or harming yourself, and whether you can stay safe
- What's happened recently, and any medications you take
- Who you have around you for support
They won’t
- Dismiss a mental-health crisis as 'not a real emergency'
- Automatically admit or detain you just because you came in
- Judge you for reaching out
Common questions
Is a mental-health crisis really an ER reason?+
Yes. If you can't keep yourself safe, it's an emergency, and the ER is an appropriate place to go. Call 911 if you can't get there safely.
Will I be kept in against my will?+
Coming to the ER voluntarily doesn't mean that. Involuntary admission only applies in specific situations set out in law, and staff would explain it if it ever came up. Most people go home the same day.
Should I call 811 first?+
If you're unsure whether to go, 811 (24/7 nurses) can help you decide. If it's an emergency or you're in danger, go to the ER or call 911.
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. This page describes a typical experience and may vary slightly by location.