By Dominique Carson

 

 

Yes, we know mental health is just as important as our physical health, but are we willing to visit an emergency room when we’re spiraling out of control mentally? 
Well, now you can.
    Behavioral health urgent care clinics are proliferating across the U.S. to address the rising demand for psychiatric care among children and adults. With about 8% of emergency department patients seeking mental health support, these clinics provide a crucial alternative to overstretched ERs, offering immediate access to care for those in crisis and facilitating connections to ongoing treatment. 
   Hospital systems are a major force behind this movement, with organizations like Missouri-based SSM Health and Northwell Health in New York establishing their walk-in mental health clinics. This new crisis center model not only enhances access to mental health services, but also promises to reshape the mental healthcare landscape in the U.S., addressing critical gaps and improving patient outcomes. 
   Dr. Amber Egyund, Chief Operating, and Nursing Officer, also stated Chesapeake Regional Healthcare in Chesapeake, Virginia built a Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP), opening in January 2025. This program will provide behavioral healthcare services, including future inpatient and outpatient options, for the Chesapeake community and Hampton Roads residents. 
   “Chesapeake Regional’s behavioral health program is vital to our community. The grant awarded today will help ensure that we can build a program that provides patients with a continuum of care that allows them to stay close to home during treatment, one that best serves people in crisis, in our community, “ said Egyund.       

   While advocating for mental health in urgent care is necessary, there are still challenges with the new transition. Mental health emergencies require a large amount of attention and resources, meaning ERs will have to become more savvy on behavioral health affairs and complete additional training. Without the additional education and resources, patients will have longer wait times and limited geographical areas. If these obstacles can be addressed, more people will be privy to mental health support in their city or region. 
   When visiting a clinic for mental health inadequacies, medical providers will be able to evaluate and perform the proper assessment based on symptoms and medical history.  Based on the evaluation, it will be determined if a patient needs to see a mental health specialist or participate in other crisis intervention services. In addition to assessment, medical professionals are trained to help individuals with mental health issues, give short-term prescriptions when needed, or refer emergency psychiatric care. The clinic will be able to educate patients with support groups or resources for follow-up treatment for their condition. 
   
Signs of a Mental Health Crisis: 
Before a person reports to a clinic for mental health issues, there are signs that they’re spiraling out of control such as isolation, excessive mood swings, neglecting their hygiene, losing interest in hobbies or work, withdrawal from friends and family, frequent worries about life and circumstances,  consistent thoughts of guilt and worthlessness,  writing about death or self-harm, or having a desire to harm themselves or others. 

  You may notice physical and cognitive changes such as sleeping for large periods, insomnia, change in appetite, increased dosage of substances as a coping mechanism, poor concentration, paranoia, disorganized thinking, or just feeling overwhelmed.
   If you experience any of the symptoms, it’s encouraged for you to visit a clinic for guidance, to prevent further escalation of the condition, receive support promptly, attenuate symptoms, and create strategies when you’re feeling bemused or having difficulty managing everyday responsibilities. 
   Dr. Aliya Jones, Executive Director of Behavioral Health, Lumnis Health encourages those to visit urgent care if they have increased symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, pain attacks, trauma, becoming violent, having suicidal thoughts, or there are psychiatric symptoms that need to be addressed within 24-72 hours. Jones states you should visit the clinic because symptoms worsen without treatment or efficient medical attention. 

    Mental health is an imperative component of health, therefore, urgent care clinics or centers can reduce the stigmas associated with seeking counsel or additional guidance. Once mental health is fully accepted in urgent care, it will ensure individuals that they’re receiving the compassionate and comprehensive support they need to be productive people in society and during arduous moments in life. 
   If you or a loved one is suffering a mental health crisis, please visit your local hospital emergency room or contact your doctor immediately.