Emergency Department Resources
Understanding when and how to get immediate support
When your child is experiencing a mental-health crisis or after a suicide attempt, families are often faced with difficult decisions under stress. This resource is to help you understand when to seek immediate help, what options are available, and what to expect if the Emergency Department (ED) is the safest choice.
The goal is safety, stabilization, and support—for your child and for you.
When Immediate Support is Needed
You know your child best. Trust your instincts.
Seek immediate help if your child:
-
Talk about wanting to die or not wanting to live
-
Has a plan or access to means for self-harm
-
Has attempted suicide or engaged in self-harm
-
Is using substances in a way that feels unsafe
-
Seems unable to stay safe, even with support
-
Is experiencing extreme emotional distress, confusion, or agitation
If you feel unsure or overwhelmed, reaching out right away can help you decide the next step.
Crisis Lines and Immediate Support
These options can be used before, instead of, or alongside going to the Emergency Department.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – (24/7)
-
Call or text 988
-
Free, confidential, available 24/7
-
Trained counselors will help you with de-escalation, safety planning, and potential next steps
Reach Out Oregon
-
833-732-2467
-
Will provide you emotional support, with local resources, and guidance for families across Oregon
You do not need to be in immediate danger to call these lines. They are here to help you think through options and reduce risk.
Community Crisis and Urgent Care
In some areas, additional supports may be available and can help avoid an ED visit when it is safe to do so.
Community-based options may include:
-
Family Support Specialists (FSS)
Family Support Specialists are trained parents or caregivers who have lived experience navigating mental-health systems. They will:-
Listen without judgment and offer emotional support
-
Help you and your family understand options and next steps
-
Support safety planning and follow-up care
-
Assist with communication between families, providers, and schools
-
-
Mobile crisis teams
Are teams that can respond in person to assess safety and help stabilize a situation. -
Behavioral health urgent care or crisis walk-in clinics
This is short-term support for urgent mental-health needs that do not require an Emergency Department visit. -
County mental-health crisis services
Are local programs that provide crisis response, coordination, and referrals.
Availability varies by county and time of day. If you are unsure what is available where you live, crisis lines can help you identify local options quickly.
When Community Support Is Not Enough
If your child cannot stay safe, has attempted suicide, or needs immediate medical care, the Emergency Department may still be the safest option.
If you are ever unsure, calling 988 or Reach Out Oregon can help you decide what to do next.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.”
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.
Find the Support You Need
Ask a question below. For emergencies call 911 or visit your nearest hospital