Upon completion of this course, you will have increased your knowledge of appropriate responses and care for persons experiencing a mental health crisis, ranging from short-term intervention to emergency management of a life-threatening situation. Specific learning objectives to address potential knowledge gaps include:

•  Distinguish between a mental health “crisis” and “emergency.”

•  Describe the types, phases, and balancing factors of a mental health crisis.

•  Recognize signs, symptoms, and contributing factors of a mental health crisis.

•  Summarise the goals and methods involved in the mental health crisis intervention process.

•  Explain the considerations involved in mental health triage.

•  List effective communication techniques for use in crisis intervention.

•  Discuss steps involved in mental health emergency management.

•  Outline the assessment process of the patient experiencing a mental health emergency.

•  Describe the appropriate care for patients experiencing substance use or a mental illness.

•  Identify ethical and legal concerns related to the care of patients experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency.