Secure and lock up objects your child could use to hurt themselves or others, such as:
All medicines, drugs, and alcohol, even all over-the-counter medicines
Toxic chemicals, such as bleach, cleaning products, yard products, and pest poisons
Sharps, such as knives and razors
Items that could be used for strangulation, such as belts, cords, ropes, and sheets
Guns and ammunition
Be triple safe by keeping guns unloaded and locked, and ammunition locked away from the guns
Items that may be easily broken or used as a weapon (if your child has destructive or aggressive behaviors)
Make sure your child does not know where the locked items are hidden.
Supporting Your Child
Structure and keeping your normal routine are the most useful tools to manage severe behaviors. Also try to:
Have a low-key atmosphere
Follow your normal house rules
Pick your battles
Encourage your child to go to school, unless told not to by your child’s provider
Give medicines following your child’s medical or psychiatric provider’s instructions
Increase supervision until a crisis is over
What should I do if there is another crisis?
If you believe your child presents a danger to themselves or others, take them to the nearest Emergency Department (ED). If you cannot safely get your child in your own vehicle, call 911 to have them taken to the ED. You can also use one of the crisis lines listed on the resource sheet to help problem solve for you and your family.
The contents of this website are for information purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not rely on the information provided for medical decision making and should direct all questions regarding medical matters to their physician or other health care provider. Use of this information does not create an express or implied physician-patient relationship.