A 2000 hold, often referred to today as a mental health crisis hold or an involuntary hold, is a legal mechanism used when an individual appears to be experiencing a mental health crisis and poses a significant risk. This type of hold allows for temporary psychiatric evaluation and stabilization for individuals who meet specific criteria indicating a danger to themselves or others due to a mental illness.
Understanding Mental Health Crisis Holds
The term "2000 hold" is an older designation. It was formerly known more broadly as a "Legal Hold" or "Legal 2000." Its primary purpose is to intervene when a person's mental state suggests a substantial likelihood of serious harm.
This intervention is not punitive but rather a safety measure designed to provide immediate care and assessment for individuals who might be unable to make sound decisions for their own safety or the safety of those around them.
Criteria for a 2000 Hold
For a mental health crisis hold to be initiated, specific criteria must be met, focusing on the individual's risk level. These criteria typically involve:
- Substantial likelihood of serious harm to self: This includes, but is not limited to, suicidal ideation with intent, self-mutilation, or the inability to care for one's basic needs (e.g., food, shelter, hygiene) to the point where it becomes life-threatening.
- Substantial likelihood of serious harm to others: This refers to homicidal threats, violent behavior, or any actions that clearly demonstrate an intent or capacity to inflict severe physical harm upon another individual.
These determinations are typically made by qualified professionals, such as law enforcement officers, mental health professionals, or medical personnel, based on observed behavior and specific legal guidelines in a given jurisdiction.
Key Aspects of a 2000 Hold
To provide a clearer picture, here's a summary of the characteristics and purpose of these involuntary holds:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To provide immediate intervention and assessment for individuals in an acute mental health crisis who are a danger to themselves or others. |
| Former Names | "Legal Hold," "Legal 2000" (often reflecting numerical codes in state statutes, such as California's Welfare and Institutions Code sections related to involuntary commitment). |
| Current Focus | Primarily referred to as mental health crisis holds or involuntary holds, emphasizing the crisis and safety aspect. |
| Trigger Criteria | Based on observable behaviors indicating a "substantial likelihood of serious harm" due to mental illness, either to the individual themselves or to others. |
| Duration | Typically a short-term hold (e.g., 72 hours, though this varies by state and specific circumstances) for acute assessment and stabilization, followed by further evaluation and potential treatment recommendations. |
The Process and Implications
When a 2000 hold is initiated, the individual is usually transported to a designated psychiatric facility, hospital emergency room, or crisis stabilization unit for an immediate evaluation. During this time, the person is assessed by mental health professionals to determine the severity of their condition, the immediate risk they pose, and the appropriate course of action.
This initial period allows for de-escalation, medication management if necessary, and the development of a treatment plan. The goal is to stabilize the individual, connect them with appropriate resources, and ensure their safety and the safety of the community. Involuntary holds are serious interventions and are only used when less restrictive alternatives are not sufficient to ensure safety.
For more information on involuntary psychiatric holds and mental health crisis interventions, you can consult reputable mental health organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or state mental health departments.
