Understanding the 5150 Mental Health Hold: Everything You Need to Know
Mental health problems are not uncommon, and anyone can experience them. In some situations, individuals with mental health issues may engage in behaviors that pose a threat to their own safety or that of others. Under such circumstances, mental health professionals can use a 5150 mental health hold to protect the individual and prevent harm to those around them. In this blog post, we’ll explore what a 5150 hold entails, who can initiate it, and how it works.
What is a 5150 Mental Health Hold?
Sometimes referred to as an involuntary psychiatric hold, a 5150 hold is a provision of the California Welfare and Institutions Code that allows qualified psychiatrists, licensed physicians, clinical social workers, and other mental health professionals to involuntarily evaluate and treat those who pose a danger to themselves or others due to a suspected mental disorder. The term “5150” comes from the section of the code that explains the criteria for such a hold.
What Criteria Warrant a 5150 Hold?
Under the code, a person may be held on a 5150 hold if they meet the following criteria:
– They have a mental disorder.
– Due to the disorder, they are a danger to themselves or others.
– They are unable or unwilling to voluntarily receive care.
Who Can Initiate a 5150 Hold?
A 5150 hold can be initiated by a peace officer, a clinician designated by a county, an attending physician, or a registered psychiatric nurse. In general, these individuals must have personally witnessed the behaviors that indicate the criteria for a hold were met. They will then have the individual transported to a designated evaluative treatment facility where a qualified mental health professional will conduct an assessment to determine if a hold is appropriate.
What Happens During a 5150 Hold?
Once an individual is placed on a 5150 hold, they will be held in a secure facility for up to 72 hours to allow the professional staff to assess their mental health status and provide necessary treatment. If the individual is found to be a danger to themselves or others and is unable or unwilling to voluntarily receive care, the facility can petition for an extended hold. If the individual is deemed alright, they can choose to check out voluntarily.
How Can A 5150 Hold Be Challenged?
If a person feels like they have been wrongly placed on a 5150 hold, they can request a hearing to dispute the hold with the involuntary treatment program. They can also obtain legal representation to fight the placement.
Conclusion
A 5150 hold may seem like a drastic step, but it is a necessary tool that mental health professionals use to protect those in danger due to mental health issues. While it is not a decision to be taken lightly, it provides a means to assess and treat those experiencing mental health crises. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues, reach out to your healthcare provider or a mental health professional for help in managing the situation before it becomes an emergency.
