Utah institute launches program for youth crisis care

Huntsman Mental Health Institute at the University of Utah last month launched a crisis stabilization program geared exclusively to children and adolescents aged 5 to 17. The institute, which comprises research and integrated mental health care functions, will provide walk-in access to specialized services, with capacity to serve up to 12 patients on a rolling admission basis. Individuals can receive up to 23 hours of crisis stabilization services before discharge or referral to more comprehensive care. Institute Executive Director David Eldredge, M.S.W., said in a news release that the institute is seeking to meet growing demand for youth services with “a trauma-informed, child-centered approach that relieves pressure on emergency departments and helps families access timely, compassionate mental health support in moments of crisis.” Traditional emergency care centers typically lack appropriate space for youths in crisis. Multiple private donors enabled the institute to establish the youth-specific program. Institute leaders anticipate that most of the youths who will be served in the program will be able to return home with outreach support and a formal safety and follow-up care plan.