Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency help now if you:
may harm yourself or someone else
have attempted suicide or made an immediate plan
cannot stay safe because of severe distress, intoxication, or confusion
are still in danger from violence or abuse
Call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
If possible, stay with a trusted person and move away from weapons, large amounts of medication, or other means of harm.
A local crisis service or suicide prevention line can also provide immediate support.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
You can also seek help sooner if the symptoms feel hard to manage.
Ask for prompt professional help if you are increasingly using alcohol or drugs to cope, cannot care for yourself, are taking serious risks, or feel that your mental health is rapidly worsening.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if trauma-related symptoms have lasted more than a few weeks, are not improving, or are affecting sleep, relationships, work, education, or daily activities.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Post-traumatic stress disorder. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.