Role of psychiatrist in crisis intervention
Role Of Psychiatrist In Crisis Intervention
Crises in mental health are characterized by sudden or acute changes in a person’s emotions, thinking process & behavior due to excessive stress which exceeds his/her coping abilities. This happens in situations like natural calamities, loss of loved ones, accidents, traumas, wars & other similar situations.
It can present with behavioral disorganization, in extreme can result in suicidal ideations & attempts.
In the long term, if they are not properly managed can result in varied psychological health problems & impairment in a person’s & family’s life.
Role of psychiatrist:
Psychiatrist uses pharmacological & non-pharmacological interventions to manage crises.
- De-escalation: A non-pharmacological approach, where the affected person is given adequate space and a secure environment, a working relationship is formed, & limits are set. The purpose is to keep patients & others safe. Helping the patient to identify his situations in the here & now.
- Oral medications: Medications that can help in managing behavior relatively fast are used. They are tried once de-escalation is not successful or the situation is immediately threatening. Commonly used medications are benzodiazepines & antipsychotics. These are used in the lowest possible dose.
- Injectable medications: They are used if oral medications are not effective or there is an imminent risk of harm to self or others. They are used in the intramuscular or intravenous route.
- Physical restraints: When the situation is extremely threatening, or it is not possible to wait for the response of medications, patients are physically restrained using standard protocols.
The psychiatrist uses this stepwise approach to manage the crisis & then engage the patient in needful care.
