What is the difference between non-emergency and emergency mental health treatment?

The difference between non-emergency and emergency mental health treatment in South Carolina is that non-emergency treatment involves seeking counseling or treatment from a mental health professional before a crisis occurs, while emergency treatment occurs when an individual is either in the midst of a mental health crisis or is at risk of imminent harm. Non-emergency mental health treatment can include individual or group counseling, as well as inpatient or partial hospitalization services. This type of treatment is often sought when an individual is beginning to experience signs of mental distress, such as increased anxiety or difficulty sleeping. Emergency mental health treatment can involve immediate hospitalization and stabilization in a secure setting such as a psychiatric unit in a hospital. This type of treatment is often required when an individual is in danger of hurting themselves or others, or if they are exhibiting extreme behaviors that require intensive medical stabilization that cannot otherwise be provided in an outpatient setting. In South Carolina, the Baker Act allows for certain individuals to be involuntarily committed for treatment if it is determined they are a danger to themselves or others.

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What is the difference between non-emergency and emergency mental health treatment?

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