The ALGEE Action Plan is a structured, five-step approach developed within the framework of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA). It guides non-experts in providing initial support to someone experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. This practical, evidence-based model is designed for use in both crisis situations (like a panic attack or suicidal ideation) and non-crisis situations where early signs of a mental health condition are observed. ALGEE serves as a memorable mnemonic to equip individuals with the confidence and skills to offer support until professional help can take over.
Assessing Immediate Safety and Risk
The first step in the ALGEE framework, ‘A,’ is to assess for the risk of suicide or harm. This assessment is the priority in a crisis, determining the immediacy of the threat to the individual or others. Warning signs can include behavioral changes, expressions of feeling hopeless or trapped, or active planning for self-harm. The first aider must be prepared to directly ask the person if they are thinking about suicide, as this provides a chance for the person to talk. If the risk is determined to be high (e.g., the person has a specific plan, means, and intent), they should not be left alone, and emergency services or a crisis line must be contacted immediately.
Principles of Non-Judgmental Interaction
The second step, ‘L,’ emphasizes listening non-judgmentally to the person experiencing distress. The goal is to create a safe space where the person feels respected and understood without fear of criticism. Active listening involves giving full attention, including maintaining comfortable eye contact and adopting an open body posture. The first aider should set aside personal judgments and allow the individual to share their feelings without interruption. Techniques like reflecting back what was said or using minimal prompts demonstrate comprehension and build a foundation of trust.
Providing Comfort and Necessary Information
Following non-judgmental listening, the ‘G’ step encourages the first aider to give reassurance and information. Reassurance involves validating the person’s experience and conveying hope that recovery is possible through effective treatments. This emotional support helps stabilize the person by acknowledging their difficulties and confirming they are not to blame for their struggles. The information provided should be factual and relevant, such as the commonality of mental health issues. The first aider can also offer basic practical help, like providing a quiet place to sit, but must recognize that meaningful recovery takes time.
Encouraging Professional and Self-Help Resources
The final two steps, both represented by ‘E,’ focus on moving the individual toward external resources for continued support. The first ‘E’ is to encourage appropriate professional help, recognizing that early treatment improves recovery chances.
Encouraging Professional Help
Professional help includes providers such as:
- General practitioners
- Psychologists
- Psychiatrists
- Accredited social workers
The second ‘E’ is to encourage self-help and other support strategies that complement professional treatment. These resources might include connecting with trusted family and friends, joining peer support groups, or identifying community programs. The first aider’s responsibility ends with connecting the person to these external resources, not by attempting to provide treatment themselves.