There are two types of crisis types: developmental and situational. Developmental crises result from predictable change and are due to normal growth or development, such as the onset of adolescence. Situational crises are either predictable, arising from certain events, such as divorce or failing a grade, or are unpredictable, such as an accidental death or natural disaster. Both types involve a change in circumstances, usually accompanied by a loss, which can precipitate a crisis reaction in an individual.

Therapists must promptly identify a person in crisis, as well as assess the degree to which his/her functioning is impaired. In addition to psychological disequilibrium, other signs and symptoms may indicate a problem for those experiencing a crisis.

Physical symptoms that may point to a problem include:

Emotional signs that may indicate a person in crisis include:

Behavioral signs that may indicate a person in crisis include: