Taking a child or teenager to the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department during a mental health crisis is one of the most challenging experiences a parent can face.
Whether your child is experiencing suicidal thoughts, self-harm, severe anxiety, or distressing delusions, knowing the path ahead can help lower the temperature of a high-stress situation.
This guide explains the typical timeline, the assessments involved, and how to navigate the wait.
Upon arrival at A&E, your first stop is the reception desk to “book in.” Shortly after, a triage nurse will assess your child to determine the urgency of their needs.
Where you will go: Depending on the hospital and your child’s age, you may be directed to Paediatric A&E, a specific mental health “safe space” room, or a general cubicle.
Safety first: The nurse may ask to check your child’s bag or pockets for items that could be used for self-harm. This is a standard safety protocol designed to create a secure environment.
Privacy: You will usually stay with your child, but clinicians may ask to speak with them alone for a few minutes. This ensures the young person can speak honestly about their feelings without worrying about upsetting their parents.
Before a mental health specialist sees your child, a medical doctor must ensure they are “medically fit.” This is a priority if there has been an overdose, self-harm, or if physical symptoms (like a racing heart) are present.
Tests: This may involve blood tests, an ECG (heart tracing), or a physical examination.
Treatment: If your child has taken an overdose, they may need intravenous fluids or specific medications to protect their internal organs before the mental health assessment can begin.
This is often the longest part of the journey. In many hospitals, the Mental Health Team (MHT) or CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) will only perform their assessment once the physical medical results are back.
The Wait: This can take several hours. Please be patient; the A&E staff have likely already alerted the psychiatric team, but they must wait for the “medical clearance” to proceed.
The Interview: A specialist nurse or psychiatrist will talk to you and your child. This session usually lasts 20 to 90 minutes.
Risk Assessment: They will ask sensitive questions about self-harm, suicidal intent, home life, and any external risks (such as bullying or abuse). It is helpful to be as honest as possible to ensure the safety plan is effective.
Following the assessment, the team will discuss the best “next steps” for your child’s safety.
Option A: Discharge and Safety Planning
If the risk is deemed manageable at home, your child will be discharged.
Safety Plan: You will be given a plan that might include removing “sharps” (knives/razors) and medications from reach at home.
Follow-up: You should receive contact details for crisis lines and an appointment for a follow-up with local community mental health services.
Option B: Extended Observation in A&E
Sometimes, a “cooling-off period” is needed. You may be asked to stay in A&E or move to a paediatric ward for 24–48 hours for further observation and to see if the crisis de-escalates with rest and support.
If the risk to your child’s life is high, the team may recommend admission to a mental health hospital.
The Bed Search: Specialist beds for young people are often in high demand. It can sometimes take a few days to find a suitable bed, during which time your child will be cared for in the A&E department or on a medical ward with extra nursing support.
The A&E environment—with its bright lights and noise—is not ideal for someone in a mental health crisis. Here is how to make it better:
Comforts from Home: Ask a friend to bring in a “comfort kit”: a phone charger, tablets for movies, books, a favorite blanket, or a hoodie.
Sensory Management: If your child has autism or sensory issues, ask the nurse if there is a quieter cubicle available. You can also ask for the overhead lights to be dimmed.
Stay Nourished: Don’t forget to eat. Ask the staff for water, tea, or sandwiches. You are more capable of supporting your child when you aren’t exhausted and hungry.
Communication: Ask the nurse for a “plan update” every hour. Even if the answer is “we are still waiting for results,” knowing you haven’t been forgotten can reduce anxiety.
Attending A&E for mental health is a brave and necessary step when a young person is at risk. While the process can feel slow and clinical, it is designed to ensure both physical and emotional safety.
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