I'm having a medical emergency, what do I do?

If you’re having a medical emergency or are thinking of harming yourself or others, here are some immediate resources:

• Call 911
• Call 988 (a 24-hour suicide prevention line that can be called anywhere in the U.S.)
• Text “Home” to 741-741 to text with a crisis counselor
• Go to your nearest emergency room or urgent care facility

If we ever have reason to believe that you intend to hurt yourself or others, we may need to share information with your emergency contact. 

If you’re having a domestic violence emergency: 

• Call 1-800-799-7233 
• Call 1-800-787-3224
• Chat with someone at https://www.thehotline.org/

If you’re having a panic attack, try these tips for diaphragmatic breathing to soothe some of the physical symptoms: 

• Place both hands on the lower part of your stomach.
• Breathe in, so that the incoming air expands that area and gently pushes against your hands.
• Gently push with your hands as you exhale slowly.
• Relax a moment, then inhale again. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. 
• If using an image helps, picture a balloon in your stomach that inflates when you inhale and deflates when you exhale.
• Practice this several times. Imagine the tension and stress leaving your body as you exhale while mentally saying to yourself, “I am becoming more relaxed and calm”.
• You may also use this link to learn more about behavioral activation techniques.

If you are having an extreme adverse reaction such as trouble breathing after taking your medication, please call 911 or go to your nearest hospital immediately, especially if your difficulty breathing is accompanied by hives, swelling, or the feeling of your throat constricting. 

Regardless of why you needed to use this article, we are here for you and will support you to ensure you are safe. Your safety is our biggest priority.