Psychiatric emergencies: A multidimensional overview

Abstract

Emergency psychiatry aims at the rapid assessment, diagnosis, and management of acute mental health disorders that pose an immediate risk to the patient or community. Common examples of such emergencies include Suicidal behavior, Acute psychosis, Violent and aggressive conduct, Severe anxiety or panic states, Substance intoxication or withdrawal, and Delirium. Medical stabilization is immediately provided, followed by psychiatric assessment with the help of structured instruments such as the Mental Status Examination and risk assessments. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods are employed in the stabilization process. Psychotherapy and counseling play an important role in the process of preventing recurrence and improving coping mechanisms, sorting out underlying conflicts, and enhancing insight, thus helping in long-term rehabilitation. This article attempts to mention the emergency psychiatric assessment and management and further discusses the rehabilitative roles played by psychotherapy and counseling.