Understanding behavioral health crises for teens and families
When a child or teen has a behavioral health crisis, parents often have to make life-changing decisions without much information and support.
A behavioral health crisis is a serious situation in which a person’s thoughts, emotions, or behaviors become so overwhelming that they can no longer safely cope. There may be risk of harm to themselves or others.
Some questions can feel overwhelming during an emergency:
What happens next?
What should I ask?
Will my child be safe?
Introducing the Crisis to Care Guide
To help answer those questions, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Family Support Network (OFSN) have launched the free online Crisis to Care Guide to help parents and caregivers know what to expect before, during, and after a behavioral health-related emergency department visit.
The Crisis to Care website was developed by parents, caregivers, and youth, with input from healthcare professionals, behavioral health providers, and community partners throughout Oregon. The guide is written through the voices of families who have experienced these situations. They offer practical advice, encouragement, and reassurance along with clinical information.
Why families need clear guidance
“No parent expects to face a behavioral health crisis with their child,” said Karin Holton, community engagement and development director for Oregon Family Support Network.
“Families tell us they want to know what to expect, what questions to ask and how to best advocate for their child and family. The Crisis to Care Guide is an update to an earlier Oregon Health Authority guide with information, guidance, and resources and to remind families that they are not alone.”
What’s in the guide?
The guide contains information about:
- Recognizing when a behavioral health emergency may require emergency care
- Preparing for an emergency department visit
- What families can expect during evaluation and treatment
- Communicating with providers and advocating for their child
- Questions to ask before leaving the hospital
- Creating a safety plan for returning home and connecting with ongoing supports
- Caring for yourself while caring for your child
- Oregon resources, peer support, and community services
OHA’s commitment to supporting families
“Families are critical partners in supporting a child’s behavioral health, especially during a crisis,” said Ebony Clarke, behavioral health director, Oregon Health Authority. “The Crisis to Care Guide reflects Oregon’s commitment to giving families clear information, practical resources, and compassionate support when they need it most. We’re proud to partner with Oregon Family Support Network to make this updated guide available to families across the state.”
Supporting providers, schools, and community partners
The guide is also intended to support emergency departments, behavioral health providers, schools, pediatricians, mobile crisis teams, and community organizations. Hospitals and providers are encouraged to share it with families before discharge, and whenever behavioral health support is needed. In addition to the online resource, print versions are available by emailing admins@ofsn.net.
About Reach Out Oregon
Reach Out Oregon, a program of Oregon Family Support Network, connects families with trusted information, peer support and resources to help them navigate parenting challenges, behavioral health concerns, and life’s unexpected moments. Through education, connection and lived experience, Reach Out Oregon helps ensure that no family has to navigate these challenges alone.