Crisis
Crisis in our family and with our children can take may forms; when it involves psychological and emotional crisis, there are several unique and important issues to consider:
-when we are emotionally and psychologically distressed or overwhelmed, we are not well-positioned to think clearly, reasonably or rationally
-when we are not thinking clearly, we are at greater risk for making unhealthy, maladaptive, and sometimes unsafe choices
- when we are psychologically and emotionally distressed, our functioning and behavior tends to more likely be unusual, unpredictable and erratic
- when we are in crisis, we are in need of assistance from others around us specifically to support us thinking more clearly and reasonably, behaving adaptively and safely, in a predictable and steady manner
Usually this assistance can be provided by immediate family and friends, or therapists and treatment team members involved in a pre-existing and ongoing manner. Sometimes, however, crisis can reach a level that places a child or those around them at immediate risk of danger and harm, despite our best efforts to assist them.
It is at these times that a rapid and focused response is essential, and should include the following:
~calling 911-- when children and those around them are at imminent risk, whether it involves suicidal or homicidal behaviors or threats, or unsafe behavior beyond your control, there is no substitute for assistance from police and emergency medical services
~contacting your treating psychiatrists/therapists; I can be reached emergently through my office line @ (502)425-5422
~contacting inpatient psychiatric facilities for assessment and possible admission; there are several psychiatric hospitals in Louisville and within a 50 mile radius:
Ackerly Unit, Norton's Hospital
Kosair's Children's Hospital
The Brook Hospital
Lincoln Trail Hospital
Our Lady of Peace
Wellstone Hospital
Seth W. Pois, M.D.
(502)425-5422
1300 Clear Springs Trace
Suite #7
Louisville, KY 40223
office@sethpoismd.com
