Psychiatric Emergency Services

3 Key Points

If professional services are needed, contact your primary care provider or mental health provider for guidance
If emergency psychiatric care is needed, Psychiatric Emergency Service (PES) at Michigan Medicine or local crisis lines are available
Contact PES for a phone consult before visiting in person if possible

Content provided by the Department of Psychiatry's Psychiatric Emergency Service

In response to the declared public health emergency of COVID-19 and daily changing guidelines, we are recommending these guidelines for those who are suffering with intense mental health symptoms.

These are challenging time of uncertainty, and many people are experiencing an increase in anxiety, fear, and depression, and other symptoms. This can be particularly true of those who may already suffer from mental health issues. To better manage these feelings, self-care exercises should be part of everyone’s regular routine. Talking with family, friends, and other loved ones can also diminish feelings of anxiety and isolation. If professional help becomes necessary, there are various options. People are encouraged to speak with their primary care physicians, in addition to their mental health providers for guidance.

If mental health issues reach a critical point, more intensive treatment may be needed. The Psychiatric Emergency Service (PES) at Michigan Medicine is available 24/7 to determine what may be appropriate for you and/or your loved ones.
*If you believe you or someone you know may be in need of emergency psychiatric care, please contact your local mental health crisis line or PES by phone: 734-936-5900 for a phone consult. Due to the nature of this unprecedented health crisis, it is strongly recommended that you contact PES by phone prior to visiting us in person.

Below are some frequently asked questions and guidelines about the services offered.

What is a psychiatric emergency?

When an individual experiences an acute disturbance in their mood, thoughts, or behavior that could place them or others in their environment in danger, it is considered a psychiatric emergency. This can consist of suicidal thinking or disorganized thinking, which leads to psychotic or delusional symptoms. Furthermore, if a person is unable to care for their basic needs due to mental illness, they may be experiencing a psychiatric emergency.

When should I or my loved one seek emergency psychiatric care?

If you believe that you or a loved one are experiencing any of the above symptoms, please contact your local Community Mental Health Center or the Psychiatric Emergency Service (PES) at 734-936-5900 to consult regarding next steps. You may also contact 911 at any time in an emergency situation, or go to PES.

What can the Psychiatric Emergency Services do for me?

Once an evaluation has been completed in PES, treatment recommendations will be made regarding ongoing care. Of note, an evaluation in PES does not establish an ongoing treatment relationship at Michigan Medicine. We will provide options for inpatient treatment, or referrals for partial hospital and outpatient services.

In addition to contacting PES directly (734-936-5900), the following are other phone resources that are available 24/7:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

Washtenaw County Community Mental Health: 734-544-3050

Other County Community Mental Health Centers: