Does anybody have any tips for dealing with someone bordering on hysteria?

Question

Would a slap on the face sort it?

Answer 1

commit them to a insane asylum  

Answer 2

Only if you want to be charged with assault.

Answer 3

CelticSaint is right tasering is the only method

Answer 4

Possibly not.

Answer 5

You need to remain calm yourself and speak to them gently and quietly, insisting that they slow down, take a few deep breaths, and tell you what the problem is.  Once the hysteria is over they may remain quite emotional and possibly cry.  Give them hot sweet tea in case of shock.

Answer 6

Maybe be hysterical back and over-do it so they can see how completely ridiculous they are.

I do it with my 1yr old daughter and she cracks up every time.

People who think they can control the situation by being hysterical need to see how absolutely out of order it is.

Unless this person is chemically unbalanced - then maybe you just need to give them some space to cool down.

Answer 7

Taser