Crisis Stabilization

Adult Mental Health and Crisis Stabilization

Addressing a mental health crisis promptly and effectively is crucial, just like any other health emergency. One in five U.S. adults experience a mental illness each year, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

Mental health crises can be unpredictable, occurring without warning. Often times individuals and their loved ones experiencing a mental health crisis lack clear guidance on what to expect. It is important to know that help and support is available.

If you or someone you know is facing a mental health crisis, our Crisis Stabilization Program offers compassionate support. This short-term residential facility provides an alternative to emergency rooms, aiming to reduce the immediate risk of harm and stabilize individuals in a safe and structured environment.

Individuals are monitored and receive treatment in a safe and effective manner. Before departure from crisis stabilization, the individual is referred to less restrictive outpatient services to continue on their path to lifelong success.

What is a Mental Health Crisis?

A mental health crisis situation can happen to anyone and involves a persons actions, feelings, and behaviors putting them or others at risk, or can prevent them from functioning effectively.

Symptoms can vary depending on the mental health disorder. When a mental health crisis begins, it is likely the individual experiencing the crisis is unaware of their behavior and its impact.

• A mental health crisis can manifest in various ways, including:
  • Severe anxiety or panic attacks
  • Persistent depression or PTSD
  • Intrusive thoughts or suicidal ideation
  • Difficulty maintaining safety in a home environment
  • Persistent symptoms that disrupt daily life

What can you do during a Mental Health Crisis?

When a mental health crisis occurs, friends and family can feel unprepared and uncertain about how to respond. Crises can lead to unpredictable and sudden changes in behavior, making it challenging to know the best course of action.

If you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, it’s crucial to seek help immediately. Assess the situation by asking questions and determine the appropriate response.

• Is there a risk of self-harm, harm to others, or property damage?
• Is emergency assistance needed?
• Can you start by calling a mental health professional for guidance?

Techniques to de-escalate a mental health crisis:

• Avoid overreacting or escalating the situation
• Listen and express support
• Ask how you can assist rather than taking control
• Announce your actions before taking them
• Respect personal space and avoid physical contact unless permission is granted
• Avoid making judgmental comments and arguing or reasoning with the individual
• Keep the environment calm
• Move slowly and give space

If the situation is life-threatening don’t hesitate to call 911 and ask for someone with mental health experience to respond.

What is Crisis Stabilization?

Crisis Stabilization is a short-term residential program designed to be a safe, secure environment that is less restrictive than a hospital.

The crisis stabilization offers 24/7 staffing and support to individuals during their stay. The goal is to stabilize the person and help them return to the community as quickly as possible through restoration of functioning and connection to support and resources.

Treatment is based off each individual’s mental health needs, addressing their unique path and journey to recovery. Crisis stabilization services may offer an assessment, therapy, and referral to outpatient services before departure.

Our Adult Mental Health Crisis Stabilization program may help you:

• Stabilize acute mental health crises
• Effectively manage mental health symptoms
• Build essential daily living skills
• Connect individuals with counseling and community resources for ongoing support

What can an individual expect from treatment?:

• Support and relief to stabilize mental health symptoms
• A safe environment for intervention
• Mental health assessment and services like counseling, case management, peer support, and medication
• Help with transitioning back into the community quickly with support

STARLight information

Located in Lancaster, Ohio, STARLight Center was built in 2024 by the Fairfield County ADAMH Board and is operated by OhioGuidestone. We are a voluntary, residential crisis stabilization program and provide mental health treatment for male and female adults over the age of 18. We are dedicated to helping individuals begin their mental health recovery journey and with the STARLight Center, recovery is possible!

STARLight offers:

• Group and individual sessions
• Pharmacological Management
• Connection to local community resources
• Methods that promote development of healthy structures and routines
• Coping-Skill building activities
• Peer support

Average Length of Stay: 3-8 days
Capacity: 8

If you or someone you know is facing a mental health crisis, our Crisis Stabilization Program is here to provide immediate, compassionate support.