Psychiatric Emergency

Suicidal Attempts/Plans: Life is the most precious thing for all living beings but sadly sometimes people just want to give up. The circumstances leading up to such a stage are definitely disturbing & overwhelming for the person concerned. It can happen in severe depression/bipolar disorder, acute psychosis, substance intoxication/withdrawal, acute stress reaction, feelings of helplessness/hopelessness/worthlessness. These people can survive with timely help & care. If routine home counseling doesn’t help then professional help must be sought. 

Panic Attacks:  A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions when there is no real danger or apparent cause. Panic attacks can be very frightening. When panic attacks occur, you might think you're losing control, having a heart attack, or even dying. There might be symptoms of sudden onset palpitations, chest pain, choking sensations, dizziness, tremors, and fear of getting another attack. People usually rush to the emergency room of hospitals and go through a long list of cardiology/neurology/gastroenterology and other investigations & treatment. But they should get psychiatric referrals if other illnesses have been ruled out.

Acute Intoxication / Withdrawal of Substances:  people addicted to substances (Alcohol/ Opioids/cannabis etc) go through many life-threatening circumstances & timely help is required to save their lives. The immediate & appropriate assessment followed by the right treatment is key to management. 

Severely Agitated or Violent Behavior: Whenever a person is severely agitated or violent there is always a risk of harm to self or others. Somebody may get grievously injured if proper management is not done. Managing such conditions requires quick & thorough assessment followed by the right treatment & counseling sessions. Mental health experts are trained to manage such conditions.