Advocating for Your Loved One During a Crisis
A guide for parents and caregivers while at the hospital emergency department.
Coming to an emergency department because a child is in crisis or in danger isn’t something any parent wants to do. Many families have told us that understanding common processes and questions at the hospital would have helped them understand what is happening and make difficult decisions more easily. We have taken that feedback and developed these resources to help you advocate for your loved one and achieve the outcomes that are best for your family.
Know Your Parental Rights
When your child is having a mental health crisis, things can feel scary and confusing. As a parent or caregiver, you have certain rights. These may change depending on your child’s age, the hospital, and if your child is old enough to make some decisions on their own.
Know Your Resources
You don’t have to figure this out alone. When you are in the ED with your child, you can ask for help and support. You can request to speak with a peer support specialist, social worker, or patient advocate who can explain your options. It’s okay to ask about follow-up care, programs, or community resources that can support your child and family after leaving the hospital.
Know You Are Not Alone
It’s normal to feel scared, overwhelmed or alone right now. Many parents have faced similar challenges and can relate to some of what you’re experiencing. The Oregon Family Support Network Parent Warmline can connect you with a trained and caring parent who truly listens, understands, and offers support, encouragement and helpful ideas.
Family members who have experienced crisis situations with their own children of all ages have created these resources.
These experiences revealed the importance of developing self-advocacy skills while navigating today’s health system.
Family leaders share their insights here to empower parents and caregivers to:
- Express their views and concerns,
- Access information and services,
- Understand their patient rights and the rights of family and natural supporters,
- Learn the language used in the emergency department, and
- Explore choices for next steps.
Licensed health professionals did not prepare these resources. Do not use them as a substitute for professional medical care of service.
FAQs
When should I call 988?
Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) when:
- Your child is in emotional distress
- They are talking about wanting to die but are not in immediate danger
- You need help calming things down or figuring out next steps.
988 is free, confidential and available 24/7 in Oregon. You can call, text or chat.
What do I do if I think my child is in withdrawal? ED or primary care?
If your child may be in withdrawal, go to the Emergency Department.
Withdrawal can be dangerous and needs medical care. Primary care is best for follow-up, but ED first if symptoms are urgent.
When should I call 911?
Call 911 when:
- There is immediate danger
- Someone has a weapon
- There is serious injury, overdoes, or loss of consciousness
If you call 911 for a mental health crisis, you can say:
“This is a mental health crisis involving a youth. We need help keeping everyone safe.”
Find the Support You Need
Ask a question below. For emergencies call 911 or visit your nearest hospital