There is a moment when staying in the role of concerned supporter is no longer the right primary role. This is that moment.
Call 911 when:
They are actively harming themselves right now.
They have a weapon and have expressed intent to use it on themselves or someone else.
They are in a medical emergency as a result of self-harm.
You cannot keep them safe and they will not go voluntarily for help.
Call 988 when:
They are expressing suicidal thoughts and you do not know what to do.
You are scared and need guidance from someone trained in crisis.
They are in distress and you want help figuring out next steps.
You are carrying this alone and need support yourself.
988 is available 24/7, by call or text. You can call on behalf of someone else.
Go to the emergency room when:
They are in a psychiatric crisis that is beyond your capacity to manage at home.
They have harmed themselves and need medical attention.
They are willing to go and you can take them now.
The most important thing to know
Calling for help is not a betrayal. It is not overreacting. It is not taking something away from them.
In mental health crises, people survive because someone reached for more help than they felt comfortable reaching for. That discomfort is normal. Do it anyway.
You are not alone in this. Help is available. Use it.