What happens when someone is in crisis or needs to be evaluated for hospitalization for mental health reasons?
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency should call the Behavioral Health crisis line 209-533-7000 or 1-800-630-1130 and speak with a crisis worker. The person in crisis may be asked to come to Behavioral Health for assessment, as many crisis situations can be deescalated or averted without the need for hospitalization. In some situations, people will be transported to or advised to go to the Sonora Regional Medical Center Emergency Room. There, an assessment will be done of the person’s physical and mental health and the presenting problem will be addressed.

If the person needs to be hospitalized for mental health reasons, they will be sent to an appropriate psychiatric facility somewhere in California, usually within a few hours from Tuolumne County, for a 72 hour hold (often called a “5150”). During this time, the person is evaluated by a psychiatrist and provided treatment if appropriate; case managers keep in contact with the facility during this time to develop an after-care plan for the person. Whether or not a person is hospitalized for their condition, follow-up resources and after care plans help to get the person to the care they need.

Show All Answers

1. Would you like to know who we are?
2. How can I get help with mental health or alcohol and drug issues?
3. What happens when someone is in crisis or needs to be evaluated for hospitalization for mental health reasons?
4. Can I get medications for my mental health issues prescribed and/or refilled at Behavioral Health?
5. What kind of insurance does Behavioral Health accept?
6. . Is there anywhere in Tuolumne County where a person can “check themselves in to the third floor,” or where they can be held for observation for the 72 hour “5150” hospitalization?