Urgent situations
Aggression or unsafe behavior
If someone becomes aggressive or unsafe, your first job is safety. This page gives a step-by-step de‑escalation plan and when to call for help.
Quick checklist
- If you are in danger, leave and call 911.
- Create space: step back, lower your voice, keep exits clear.
- Don’t argue facts—use calm, short statements and redirect.
- After the moment passes, document triggers and patterns for the clinician.
Call now / go now
- Threats with weapons, physical violence, or you cannot safely stay in the home: call 911.
- New aggression with sudden confusion, fever, or medication change: urgent evaluation.
De-escalation steps
- Safety first: keep distance, remove objects if you can safely do so, position yourself near an exit.
- Validate emotion: “I can see you’re upset. I’m here to help.”
- Offer two simple choices: “Would you like water or to sit for a minute?”
- Redirect to a neutral activity (music, snack, bathroom, a short walk if safe).
Do not do
- Don’t physically restrain unless trained and absolutely necessary for immediate safety.
- Don’t corner them or block exits.
- Don’t argue or try to “win” the conversation.