Under what circumstances would a behavioral health case manager initiate a 5150 hold?

A behavioral health case manager would initiate a 5150 hold when a client poses a danger to themselves or others. This holds are utilized in situations where an individual is deemed to be a risk of serious harm, either through suicidal ideation or threats of violence against others. The primary goal of this intervention is to ensure the safety of the individual and those around them, allowing for an immediate response to potentially life-threatening situations. Establishing a 5150 hold typically involves a psychiatric evaluation to determine the client's mental state and the necessity for involuntary treatment.

In this context, other scenarios, such as financial difficulties or refusal to attend therapy, do not meet the criteria for a 5150 hold, as they do not pose an immediate threat to safety. The expression of dissatisfaction with services may indicate a need for better support or communication but does not justify a hold based on mental health risks. The focus of a 5150 hold is strictly on the immediate assessment of danger, rather than on issues related to compliance or dissatisfaction with treatment.