It is possible that someone will join your support group meeting while they are in crisis. If that happens, donʼt panic. Here are some important next steps:

• If you are meeting virtually, shift to a private meeting space to speak to the person one-on-one.
• Maintain a list of local and national hotlines and resources to share as needed. Use pflag.org/hotlines to get started.

Use the sample scripts included below:

• Immediate danger: “If youʼre in immediate danger, you need to call 911 to get help right away. If you donʼt have a phone, contact a friend or family member that can call 911 for you.”
• Suicidal thoughts: “Based on what you just shared; I encourage you to contact 988 Lifeline. You can dial 988 or access text and chat resources online. I encourage you to seek out those resources as soon as you can. Help is available.”
• For transgender/nonbinary people experiencing a crisis: “I encourage you to contact the TransLifeline at (877) 565-8860, which is staffed by transgender people for transgender people. This is not a 24/7 hotline and information about their hours is available at translifeline.org/hotline.”

Remember to take time for self-care after you interact with someone in crisis. It can be just as challenging and difficult to help someone as it can be to experience a crisis. Be gentle and seek support from peers and professionals as needed.

Download this resource here: If Someone Is in Crisis