At Higher Grounds Management, we understand that navigating a mental health crisis with your teen can be overwhelming and emotional. When a minor is experiencing severe distress, thoughts of self-harm, or poses a danger to themselves or others, parents and caregivers may encounter a 5150 hold—a legal psychiatric hold in California. Knowing what this process entails and what steps to take next can help families approach the situation with clarity and confidence.
What is a 5150 Hold for Minors in RedonDo Beach?
A 5150 hold is an involuntary psychiatric hold that allows minors to be detained in a hospital or mental health facility for up to 72 hours for evaluation and stabilization. This hold is only placed when a mental health professional, law enforcement officer, or medical provider determines that a minor presents an immediate risk of:
Harming themselves (suicidal ideation or attempts)
Harming others (violent or aggressive behavior)
Being gravely disabled (unable to care for their basic needs due to a severe mental health condition)
This legal measure is intended to protect the minor and provide immediate mental health intervention.
What Happens During a 5150 Hold in Torrance or Palos Verdes?
During the 72-hour period, the minor is placed in a designated psychiatric facility where a team of mental health professionals will:
Assess their mental state and determine the level of risk.
Provide immediate treatment and stabilization.
Decide if further care is necessary beyond the 72 hours.
At the end of the hold, one of the following outcomes will occur:
The minor is released if they are no longer deemed a risk.
A voluntary treatment plan is developed with the family's involvement.
A 5250 hold (14-day extension) is initiated if further intensive care is required.
How Does Higher Grounds Management Support Families Before, During, and After a 5150 Hold in the South Bay?
A 5150 hold is a crisis moment, but it does not define a teen’s future. At Higher Grounds Management, we work closely with families to prevent mental health crises, provide support during hospitalization, and offer ongoing guidance afterward to ensure long-term recovery.
Our services include:
Prevention & Early Intervention – Helping families identify early warning signs of mental health struggles before they escalate.
Family Support & Education – Navigating the complexities of the mental health system, understanding a 5150 hold, and creating a plan for moving forward.
Teen Mentorship & Therapy – Providing direct mentorship, therapeutic interventions, and accountability to help teens rebuild confidence and stability.
Aftercare Planning – Developing structured post-crisis support, including outpatient therapy, family coaching, and mentorship to prevent relapse.
What Parents Can Do If Their Child Is Placed on a 5150 Hold in Southern California?
If your child is placed on a 5150 hold, here’s what you can do to support them:
Stay informed – Contact the hospital or psychiatric facility to understand your child's status.
Communicate with providers – Speak with doctors and therapists about your child’s treatment and next steps.
Create a post-crisis plan – Work with professionals like Higher Grounds Management to ensure your teen receives ongoing support once they are discharged.
Focus on long-term care – A 5150 hold is just the beginning. Helping your teen transition back to daily life with structure, therapy, and mentorship is key to recovery.
Moving Forward: Helping Your Teen Rebuild with Aftercare Services
At Higher Grounds Management, we believe that every crisis is an opportunity for growth. If your child has experienced a 5150 hold, it’s important to take proactive steps toward long-term mental wellness. With the right intervention, structure, and support, teens can overcome mental health challenges, regain stability, and build a strong foundation for their future.
If you need guidance, we’re here to help. Contact Higher Grounds Management today to learn more about how we support families through adolescent mental health crises.
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