The term “5150 hold” has become more prevalent in the media recently, especially when discussing the mental health of celebrities such as Amanda Bynes. This term refers to a section of California’s Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) that was created to detain individuals with mental health disorders for evaluation and treatment.
Code 5150 states that a person can be involuntarily held for psychiatric assessment and crisis intervention for up to 72 hours if they pose a danger to themselves or others as a result of their mental health disorder. This period is referred to as an “observation period,” during which time mental health professionals assess the patient’s condition and determine if involuntary hospitalization is necessary.
According to the law, patients must be treated in the least restrictive setting possible while in care. Additionally, the care team must end the hold when the patient no longer meets the criteria for involuntary hospitalization. This means that a patient on a 72-hour hold may be released earlier, or their hold may be extended to a 14-day hold, also known as a 5250.
Other states have different names and processes for handling individuals in a mental health crisis. In New York, for example, the “Mental Hygiene Law” allows for individuals to be involuntarily taken into treatment at a mental health facility.
Unfortunately, many celebrities, including Amanda Bynes, have struggled with their mental health. In Bynes’ case, she was placed on a 72-hour psychiatric hold after flagging down a car while naked and alone, claiming she had come out of a psychotic episode. Bynes has been struggling with bipolar disorder and was under conservatorship for eight years before it ended one year ago.
Other celebrities, including Kanye West, Britney Spears, Mischa Barton, David Hasselhoff, Nick Stahl, Margot Kidder, and Martin Lawrence, have also experienced mental health crises and have been held under the 5150 hold or similar processes.
Overall, the 5150 hold is a necessary tool to ensure individuals receive the mental health treatment they need, even if it is involuntary. It is important to remember that mental health disorders are medical conditions that require professional attention and care. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, reach out to the National Alliance on Mental Illness hotline (NAMI) for support.
