State releases videos on mental health crisis holds

“These videos come at such an important time when many are experiencing increased stressors and crises,” said Jessica Flood Abrass, Northern Regional Behavioral Health Coordinator. “The videos can help so many people in understanding the mental health crisis hold process in Nevada. We hope this education will create a common understanding of the process and support patient rights throughout Nevada.”

Formerly known as a “Legal Hold” or “Legal 2000,” mental health crisis holds are used when a person appears to be in a mental health crisis. This means they meet criteria for “substantial likelihood of serious harm” to themselves or others due to mental illness. In these situations, the person may be held involuntarily in a health care facility for evaluation, observation, and treatment for up to 72 hours.

“As a licensed clinical social worker, who works in the crisis mental health field on a daily basis, I appreciate the importance of having accurate information that is easy to understand and can help navigate the involuntary mental health crisis hold process,” said Division Youth Programs Coordinator Michelle Sandoval. “These videos are not only educational for the public, but also are good training tools for professionals.”

The videos are designed for all audiences: parents, caregivers, individuals, schools, and providers. The videos break down what a mental health crisis hold is, the laws that guide the process, how to complete the mental health crisis hold packet, and what happens after the 72-hour hold. The videos can also be used as training tools for professionals who are qualified to place a person on a mental health crisis hold such as law enforcement officers, medical providers, and mental health providers.

The educational videos were funded through a combination of the funds from the Supplemental Community Mental Health Block Grant Program COVID-19 and the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant Program COVID-19, and in cooperation with Rural Nevada Hospital Partners, Statewide Mental Health Crisis Workgroup, Parents Educating Parents, and the National Alliance of Mental Illness Western Nevada.

Both videos are in English and Spanish and can be viewed by visiting: nvbh.org/involuntary-hold/