Emergency care in case of acute psychotic and/or manic symptoms: Lived experiences of patients and their families with the first interventions of a mobile crisis team. A phenomenological study

Purpose To explore the lived experiences of patients with a psychotic or bipolar disorder and their families with emergency care during the first contact with a mobile crisis team. Methods Open individual interviews were held with ten patients and ten family members. Content data‐analysis was conducted. Findings Communication and cooperation was difficult in several cases. Personal crisis plans were not always used. Stigma was felt, especially when police‐assistance was needed. A calm, understanding attitude was appreciated. Practice Implications Focus explicitly on communication with the patient, despite the acute condition, enhances the chance of cooperation. Taking time for contact is important.