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Data from the California Health Care Foundation shows one in seven of the state’s residents experience mental illness, with one in 26 cases being classed as severe. As a result, mental health California facilities play a critical role in addressing the needs of the many people facing challenges.

With nearly 39 million people living in California as of 2023, it has become crucial to begin developing a plan to grapple with the widespread mental health issues. Various factors have exacerbated the situation in recent years, including economic disparity, homelessness, a divisive presidential election, and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

This page will educate readers on the mental health California services available and how to get help. By understanding the challenges facing millions of people and treatment resources, we can move to improve the overall community’s well-being. At Moment of Clarity, we aim to guide patients through every step of the treatment process through tailored therapies and compassionate support.

Where Can I Get Mental Health Services in California?

In California, several mental health services aim to help people from all walks of life. Here are some essential resources:

• County Mental Health Departments: Each county has a mental health department that provides services, including therapy, crisis intervention, and support groups. You can find your county’s contact information online.
• Community Mental Health Clinics: These clinics often offer services on a sliding fee scale based on income, promoting accessibility. Services like individual and group therapy, medication support, and case management can be found here. 
• Crisis Hotlines: There are various hotlines available that offer immediate support for anyone in a crisis. 
• Private Services: Many licensed psychologists, counselors, and psychiatrists are available throughout California. Meanwhile, treatment centers like Moment of Clarity can help you get a mental health diagnosis and offer subsequent care to treat it. 
• University Health Services: If you are a student, many universities provide mental health services such as counseling and support groups.
• Nonprofit Organizations: Various mental health groups in California offer resources, support groups, and educational programs.
• Health Insurance Providers: Sometimes, contacting your insurer directly for a list of covered mental health providers and services can be best.

Based in Southern California, Moment of Clarity can streamline treatment by offering various services in one place. Their Santa Ana facility has experience treating and supporting anxiety, bipolar disorder, BPD, depression, trauma, and more.

What Is the 5150 Law in California?

The 5150 law in California is part of the Welfare and Institutions Code. It allows for the involuntary detention of people who are a danger to themselves or others due to a mental health California crisis. Under this law, a person can be held for up to 72 hours for evaluation and treatment if they meet the following criteria:

1. Danger to Self: The person is at risk of self-harm or suicide. 
2. Danger to Others: The person is a threat to the safety of others. 
3. Graveley Disabled: The person cannot provide for their basic needs, such as food, clothing, or shelter, due to a mental disorder.

The process involves contacting a law enforcement office or mental health professional who will evaluate the person and determine if they fit the criteria. During the 72-hour detention, mental health professionals will further examine the person to develop a treatment plan, determine the possibility of a longer hold, or discharge the person. 

California’s 5150 law aims to assist anyone in a mental crisis while prioritizing the safety of everyone involved. 

What Is Classified as a Mental Health Crisis?

There are several symptoms of a mental health crisis, including severe emotional distress or erratic behavioral changes. However, the key element is often whether or not the person poses a risk to themselves or others.

Here are some common signs of a mental health crisis:

• Suicidal Thoughts: This can involve expressions of wanting to harm oneself or having a plan to commit suicide.
• Homicidal or Violent Thoughts: The person may threaten or create a plan to harm others. 
• Crippling Anxiety or Panic Attacks: Experiencing overwhelming anxiety that disrupts daily functioning.
• Psychotic Episodes: Symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, or severe disorientation could be a sign of a mental health crisis.
• Hazardous Substance Abuse: This could come in the form of an overdose, withdrawal, or dangerous behavior while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Severe Mood Changes: Extreme shifts in mood, such as severe depression or mania, that impair judgment or function.
• Inability to Tend to Basic Needs: If a person is unable to care for their own basic needs such as food, shelter, or hygiene, they may be suffering a mental health crisis. 
• Self-Harm: Engaging in actions that cause harm to oneself without suicidal intent.

Moment of Clarity’s intensive outpatient program (IOP) for mental health treatment is well-equipped to help people stabilize if they’re in a crisis. Patients will benefit from a structured treatment plan in a safe and open environment. Moment of Clarity’s team of experts will work to heal the underlying roots of mental health California issues with various therapies and potentially medication. Our treatment center is an excellent option for anyone in California suffering from a mental health issue. 

How Do I Get Mental Health Help in California?

As discussed in the section above, those seeking mental health treatment in California have several options. However, it’s not always as simple as simply asking. Internal challenges and social stigmas could prevent a person from asking for help. 

Finding the courage to seek mental health help can be challenging, but it’s an essential step toward well-being. Here are some strategies to help you take that step:

1. Admitting There’s a Problem: Recognizing an issue and the possibility of treatment is often the first step to getting help for mental health. Disorders like anxiety and depression can prompt feelings of hopelessness, but realizing that is just the illness talking can go a long way.  
2. Acknowledging and Validating Your Feelings: Recognize that feeling hesitant or scared is OK. Many people experience similar feelings when considering seeking help.
3. Educating Yourself: Learn about mental health and the types of services available. Understanding what to expect can reduce anxiety.
4. Find a Trusted Source of Support: Reaching out can feel overwhelming. However, starting small with one trusted family member or friend can provide you the support to go further. This can also include calling a self-help line or contacting a clinic like Moment of Clarity, which can set you on the right path. 

Getting help isn’t always easy, but it’s always possible. No matter your mental state, professionals are waiting to help. 

How to Contact Moment of Clarity for Help with  Mental Health in California

Moment of Clarity is a premier California mental health treatment facility that offers outpatient services for a range of disorders. Services include outpatient treatment, an intensive outpatient program, partial hospitalization, couples outpatient support, individual therapy, group therapy, trauma care, and more. Our mental health specialists offer treatment with no judgment, providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Call us today at 949-625-0564 to get the treatment you deserve and enjoy a moment of clarity.