5150 (involuntary psychiatric hold)

A 5150 (involuntary psychiatric hold) is like a time-out that grown-ups can take if they are worried about someone's mental health. If a person is acting in a way that is dangerous to themselves or others, their family or friends or a doctor can ask the police to take them to the hospital to make sure they are safe. Once they get to the hospital, doctors will talk to the person to see what's going on and decide if they need to stay there for a little while. This is called a 5150 hold. The person is not being punished, but the hold is meant to keep them safe and help them get the help they need. The hold usually lasts 72 hours, but sometimes it can be extended if the doctor thinks it is necessary.