[Joint crisis plans in psychiatry].

Objective: To give an overview about definitions, practice and effects of joint crisis plans in psychiatry.

Method: Systematic literature review.

Results: Different types of joint crisis plans have been emerging within the last decade mostly in North America and Great Britain. So far, scientific literature stems nearly exclusively from those countries. There is evidence from one RCT that joint crisis plans can reduce involuntary hospitalisation and involuntary treatment. In Germany, joint crisis plans are increasingly in use, but legal regulations do not exist and research is missing.

Conclusions: Joint crisis plans are considered as a useful instrument by service users and some professionals. Research is needed on target groups, acceptance, implementation strategies, and outcomes in Germany.