How to Calm Down a Psychiatric Patient

When a psychiatric patient is taking medication properly, a violent or emotional crisis is rarely seen. But when medication doesn't work, or a psychiatric patient is not taking it, you may be faced with the challenge of how to calm him down. Cooling off an emotional crisis can be difficult, especially if it's been building for a few days or is accompanied by erratic or dangerous behavior. But soothing a distressed psychiatric patient can be done with a little training, and luck.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Determine why the psychiatric patient is upset or needs calming by attempting to talk with him, or with family members. Depending on her diagnosis, she may be upset over something that may not seem like a big deal to you, but is a major issue for her.

2. Talk to the psychiatric patient. Sometimes all it takes to calm him down is a calm conversation, mostly focused on you listening to his concerns. Use active listening, by rephrasing what he tells you; such as, "I understand what you are saying is...".

3. Call the psychiatric patient's doctor. He can prescribe medication that can help the patient calm down if she is at home or in an outpatient setting. If he can call it in to a local pharmacy, medication can often be available within the hour.

4. Determine if the psychiatric patient has been taking his medication and/or attending counseling sessions regularly. Ask the patient directly, if you trust his response, or ask family members. The patient may have special medication to take in situations where he loses control. Call the counselor familiar with the patient's situation, as she may have ways of calming down the patient.

5. Do not touch the psychiatric patient unless you are very familiar with her. Touching a psychiatric patient can set off a violent episode, or lead you into physical displays of affection you may not be comfortable with (such as hugging or cuddling).

6. Don't tell a psychiatric patient to "get a hold of yourself" or "stop crying." Psychiatric patients cannot control their brain chemistry or emotions; that's why they have sought help.

7. Call 911 or your local emergency number if it appears the psychiatric patient is not going to calm down, is suicidal, or is a danger to himself or others. Police or EMS crews are specially trained to calm down psychiatric patients.

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