What is what to do when a mentally ill person attacks you?

It's crucial to remember that reacting to an attack from someone experiencing a mental health crisis requires a different approach than dealing with a typical assault. The primary goal is to de-escalate the situation and ensure everyone's safety.

Here's some information on how to handle such a situation:

• Prioritize Your Safety: Your safety is paramount. If possible, create distance between yourself and the individual. If you can safely retreat, do so. Don't hesitate to call for help if you feel threatened.

• Assess the Situation: Try to quickly assess the situation. Is the person displaying signs of acute distress? Are they disoriented? Are they making threats? This assessment will influence your response.

• De-escalation Techniques:

  • Stay Calm: Speak in a calm, quiet, and reassuring tone. Avoid raising your voice or appearing agitated.
  • Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance. Avoid approaching the person directly or making sudden movements.
  • Listen Actively: Show that you are listening by nodding and making brief verbal acknowledgements. Let them express themselves without interruption (unless safety is compromised).
  • Avoid Arguing: Do not argue or try to reason with the person. Their perception of reality may be distorted.
  • Simple Language: Use simple, clear language. Avoid jargon or complex sentences.
  • Acknowledge Feelings: Acknowledge their feelings without necessarily agreeing with their statements. For example, "I can see that you're upset."
  • Offer Space: If possible, offer the person space to calm down.
  • Avoid Direct Eye Contact: Intense eye contact can be perceived as aggressive.

• Call for Help: Contact emergency services (911 in the US, 112 in Europe, etc.) or a crisis intervention team. Explain the situation clearly, including that the person is experiencing a mental health crisis. Provide your location and a description of the individual. If possible, let the dispatcher know if the person is armed.

• Law Enforcement Response: Be aware that law enforcement may be involved. Try to cooperate with them and provide any information that might be helpful in de-escalating the situation safely.

• After the Incident: Even after the immediate danger has passed, it's important to process the experience. Consider talking to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.

It's important to remember:

• This information is not a substitute for professional training. Consider taking a course in crisis intervention or de-escalation techniques.
• Every situation is different. Adapt your approach based on the specific circumstances.
• If you are unsure how to proceed, prioritize your safety and call for help.

Here are some important subjects:

• De-escalation Techniques
• Crisis Intervention
• Mental Health
• Personal Safety
• Emergency Services