Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU)
What can I expect in the CSU?
The CSU is here to give you immediate help when you are in emotional distress. A nurse will see you first. Then, you will meet with your care team for a mental health evaluation to see how you are doing. Based on your needs, you may be given choices for more care (such as therapy or medicine options) to help you feel better.
The CSU is an open, shared space where patients get care at the same time. Patients stay in reclining chairs, not beds, in the shared space. The area is calm and supervised. The CSU does not have hospital rooms, private rooms, or a place for long-term care.
There are separate units for adults and adolescents.
How do I get to the CSU?
If you are having a mental health emergency, go to the emergency department. If our care team decides you need psychiatric care, they may move you to the CSU at medical center university.
Why is the CSU an open, shared space?
Our open, shared space allows the care team to give you care quickly so you can start feeling better sooner. Many patients are able to go home within a few hours after we make a care plan with you.
After your mental health evaluation, your care team will talk with you about next steps. This may be therapy, medicine options, or getting connected to community resources.
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please go to the Emergency Department or call 911. After you have been medically evaluated, emergency room staff may determine that a transfer to the CSU is appropriate.
If you are experiencing emotional distress or a suicide crisis but it is not an immediate emergency, you can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at any time. Call or text 988 for free, confidential support, 24/7.