What should you do if you believe a person might harm themselves or others?

When you believe someone might harm themselves or others, the most appropriate action is to call 911 or a mental health crisis hotline. This response directly connects you with trained professionals who can provide immediate assistance and intervention.

Engaging professionals is crucial because they have the expertise to assess the situation accurately and take necessary actions to ensure the safety of the individual and those around them. Quick action can be life-saving, making it important not to delay in such serious situations.

While discussing your concerns with coworkers might seem supportive, it does not address the immediate risk and could lead to further delay in obtaining the help that is urgently needed. Waiting to see if the behavior escalates is also dangerous, as it allows the situation to become potentially more harmful. Confronting the individual about your concerns can lead to defensive reactions, which may put both you and the individual at greater risk. Thus, contacting professionals is the most responsible and effective option.