What Is a 5150 Hold?

Mental health challenges can sometimes reach a crisis point — for the individual experiencing them and for those around them. In California, when a person is considered a danger to themselves or others, or is gravely disabled due to a mental health condition, a specific legal action can be taken: a 5150 hold. At Baja Rehab, we believe in demystifying mental health processes so individuals and families can navigate them with confidence and compassion.

A 5150 hold refers to a section of the California Welfare and Institutions Code (§ 5150) that allows a qualified officer or clinician to place an individual under involuntary psychiatric detention for up to 72 hours. This is done to evaluate and treat individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis and meet one or more of the following criteria:

• They are a danger to themselves (e.g., suicidal ideation or intent),
• They are a danger to others (e.g., violent or threatening behavior),
• They are gravely disabled (i.e., unable to care for basic personal needs due to mental illness).

The hold must be initiated by a peace officer (e.g., police officer, sheriff), a licensed clinician, or designated county mental health professionals. It is not something that family or friends can enact directly, though loved ones can certainly contact authorities or mobile crisis units if they believe a person is in urgent need of psychiatric intervention.

Once placed under a 5150:

1. Transport to a Psychiatric Facility: The individual is taken to a designated mental health facility or hospital equipped to handle psychiatric evaluations.
2. Assessment Period (72 Hours): Over the course of up to three days, the individual is observed, diagnosed, and stabilized. Mental health professionals determine if further treatment is necessary.
3. Possible Outcomes:
   • The person may be released before 72 hours if they are no longer deemed a danger or gravely disabled.
   • The hold may be extended to a 5250 hold (14-day involuntary hold) if the person still meets the criteria.
   • They may choose voluntary treatment if they are coherent and agree to continue care.

While the process can feel intimidating or even traumatic, the intention of a 5150 hold is preventative and protective. It’s a safety mechanism designed to intervene before someone harms themselves or others — giving mental health professionals time to stabilize and provide access to the right support.

At Baja Rehab, we often work with clients and families after a 5150 hold. It can be a wake-up call or the beginning of a new chapter in recovery. Families should know:

• A 5150 is not a criminal charge.
• It is confidential and protected by HIPAA laws.
• It may be a crucial first step toward a long-term treatment plan — including residential care, outpatient therapy, or medication management.

Whether someone has recently experienced a 5150 hold or is at risk of one, our team provides trauma-informed, compassionate care. We specialize in:

• Dual diagnosis treatment (mental health + substance use)
• Family therapy and support
• Aftercare planning and relapse prevention

No one should face mental illness alone, and crisis moments like a 5150 can serve as a turning point toward healing.