Mental Health Awareness Month: How to Respond with Compassion and Safety
Each May, Mental Health Awareness Month brings attention to a topic that affects millions but is often misunderstood. Mental health challenges don’t always look the same—and when someone is in crisis, how we respond can make all the difference.
At Cultris Security Systems, we care about creating safer environments for everyone, and that includes supporting emotional and psychological well-being. That’s why we’re sharing practical guidance for recognizing mental health situations, responding appropriately, and accessing the right resources—instaed of automatically calling the police.
Mental Health and Everyday Safety
When someone is experiencing a mental health challenge, their behavior may appear unusual, unpredictable, or even alarming—but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are a threat or engaging in criminal activity.
It’s important to understand the difference between a mental health crisis and a criminal situation:
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A criminal situation involves intent to harm, steal, trespass, or break the law.
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A mental health situation might involve emotional outbursts, confusion, withdrawal, or signs of distress—without criminal intent.
Recognizing this distinction helps prevent unnecessary escalation and ensures people in crisis get the help they need, not punishment or fear.
What To Do If You Encounter Someone in Crisis
Whether you’re at work, in a public place, or even with a friend or family member, you may someday come across someone in the middle of a mental health crisis. If that happens, here’s what you can do:
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Stay calm. Speak in a gentle tone, avoid sudden movements, and try not to raise your voice.
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Keep a safe distance. Ensure your own safety while maintaining a respectful space.
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Ask simple questions. “Are you okay?” or “Is there someone I can call for you?” can go a long way.
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Listen, don’t lecture. You don’t need to solve the problem—you just need to be present.
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Don’t assume it’s a criminal issue. Mental health crises often stem from internal distress, not malicious intent.
Your goal is not to “fix” the situation on your own, but to respond with empathy and connect the person to the right support.
If Someone Mentions Suicidal Thoughts
Hearing someone talk about ending their life is deeply serious. They might say something directly (“I want to die”) or more subtly (“I just can’t do this anymore,” or “Everyone would be better off without me”).
If this happens:
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Take it seriously. All mentions of suicide deserve your attention.
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Stay with them if you can. Don’t leave the person alone if it’s safe to remain.
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Let them talk. Let them express how they’re feeling without judgment.
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Reach out to crisis support, such as:
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text)
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Local mental health hotlines or mobile crisis units
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Family or trusted individuals they identify
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Know the Resources
While police can be a necessary resource in some emergency situations, they aren’t always the best first response for mental health crises. While many agencies have focused on de-escalation techniques, some officers may not be trained to address these scenarios and their rsponse could cause more harm than good. Since 911 will be top of mind, if you do call them, reiterate that the request is for crisis intervention and not criminal activity.
If possible, consider:
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Calling 988, the national mental health crisis line.
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Contacting a local mobile crisis team.
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Reaching out to nearby hospitals or mental health clinics.
Always prioritize getting help over acting alone—but choose the help that’s most equipped to support someone in emotional distress.
You Can Make a Difference
Mental Health Awareness Month is about more than raising awareness—it’s about taking action with compassion.
If someone you know—or someone you don’t—is struggling, don’t look the other way. You could be the person who helps them feel seen, heard, and safe.
Remember: Help is available, and no one has to face mental health challenges alone.
