Talking about mental health and mental illness has become an important way to break the stigma and encourage people to reach out for help. But when someone you care about—like a friend, co-worker, or family member—opens up about their struggles or tells you they’re in crisis, it can be hard to know how to respond.
At Distress Centre Calgary, we specialize in crisis intervention and mental health support. We train our volunteers and staff to respond with empathy, safety, and care—and we want to share some of that knowledge with you.
Understanding Mental Health Crisis
What is a crisis?
A crisis is any situation where a person’s usual ways of coping aren’t working. What one person finds distressing might not affect someone else in the same way. But if someone feels overwhelmed, hopeless, or unsure of what to do next, they are in crisis—and they may need support from someone they trust.
Many people turn to friends or family first. If someone you know in Calgary or Southern Alberta is reaching out to you for support, here’s how to respond in a helpful, compassionate way.
5 Ways to Help a Friend in Mental Health Crisis
1. Check In on Their Safety
Start by asking how they’re really doing. Reassure them that you’re there to support them. If appropriate, ask clearly and calmly if they are having thoughts of suicide or hurting themselves.
Asking someone about suicide won’t “put the idea in their head.” In fact, it shows that you care and opens the door for them to speak openly. For more information on supporting someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts:
If you believe someone is at immediate risk of suicide or self-harm, please call 9-1-1 or call or text our 24/7 Calgary Distress Line at 403-266-4357 or visit the chat portal on our website (in the right hand corner of the screen).
2. Listen Without Judgement
After checking their safety, give them space to talk. Listening is one of the most powerful tools you have.
- Use eye contact and body language to show you’re engaged
- Ask gentle questions to clarify what they’re saying
- Reflect back what you’re hearing in your own words
- Validate their feelings — even if you don’t fully understand them
- Avoid judgment or offering advice too quickly
People in crisis often feel isolated. Simply listening without judgment can make them feel seen and supported.
3. Don’t Jump to Solutions
It’s natural to want to fix things for someone you care about. But during a mental health crisis, quick fixes or well-meaning advice can feel dismissive.
Instead, try:
- “That sounds really hard. I’m here for you.”
- “How can I support you right now?”
Let them lead the conversation. Offer your presence, not pressure.
4. Connect Them to Local Mental Health Resources
If they are open to it, help them explore support options. Calgary offers a wide network of mental health services and crisis resources, including:
- Distress Centre Calgary – 24/7 crisis support by phone (403-266-4357), text, or chat
- 211 Alberta – Free information and referrals to local services like counselling, peer support, shelters, and more
You don’t need to have all the answers. Just knowing where to turn can make a big difference.
5. Take Care of Yourself Too
Supporting someone in crisis can be emotionally exhausting. Make sure you’re looking after your own mental health:
- Set boundaries when needed
- Talk to someone you trust
- Engage in activities that restore your energy
- Call us if you need someone to talk to
Remember: You can’t pour from an empty cup.
We’re Here for You—And the People You Care About
If you’re supporting someone in distress, or if you’re feeling overwhelmed yourself, please reach out. You’re not alone.
- Call or text Distress Centre Calgary 24/7 at 403-266-HELP (4357)
- Chat with us online using the portal at the bottom-right of this page
- Visit DistressCentre.com for more resources
Helping someone through a mental health crisis isn’t always easy — but with support, compassion, and the right tools, you can make a real difference.
