When You Need Emergency or Crisis Service for Mental Health

Understanding when to seek an emergency or crisis service is one of the most important aspects of managing mental health. While ongoing care like Medication Management, Therapy (Counseling Services), and Telehealth Services are essential for long-term stability, there are moments when immediate action is necessary.

In South Carolina — including the Midlands, Lowcountry, and Upstate — as well as in Colorado, crisis services are available to provide urgent support when someone is at risk of harming themselves or others. These situations require immediate intervention and should not be delayed.

A medical or mental health emergency may include severe suicidal thoughts, panic attacks that impair functioning, psychotic episodes, or extreme emotional distress. In these cases, contacting emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room is critical.

While services like GeneSight® Testing (Pharmacogenomic Testing) and Spravato® (Esketamine) Treatment play a role in long-term care, they are not designed for crisis situations. Their purpose is to improve outcomes over time, not to replace emergency response.

After a crisis is stabilized, ongoing care becomes essential. Patients often transition into structured programs that include Medication Management and Therapy to prevent future episodes. Telehealth can also play a role in providing frequent follow-ups during recovery.

Recognizing the difference between ongoing care and urgent care can save lives. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, do not wait — seek emergency assistance right away.