3. Crisis, safety and when it becomes a concern

Crisis

If someone is at immediate risk of harm to themselves or others, it is an emergency: 999, or take them to emergency care, or NHS 111 if you are unsure and it is not immediate. Do not leave them alone to “think it over” if they have a plan and means. You are not a therapist; you are a human being with a phone.

Fitness to practise

If a colleague’s health is putting patients at risk and they will not step back, that is a raising-concerns issue as well as a kindness issue. The two duties can sit together. Occupational health exists so this is not a public humiliation.

Your own health

GDC Standards expect you not to work if your health means you cannot do so safely. Insight is part of professionalism. Taking sick leave is not a character failure.

After an incident

A complaint, a patient death, or a near miss can floor a team. Debrief facts, offer occupational support, and do not force people to “get back on the horse” the same afternoon with a surgical extraction.

What this course is not

It is not counselling. It is not a mental-health first-aid licence unless you have taken that training separately. It is one hour of shared language so fewer people suffer in a cupboard.

In a crisis use 999 or NHS 111. Always follow current NHS advice.