How to Get Mental Health Help Now
Your Mental Health Matters
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and if you're not sure where to begin, then you've come to the right place. Chesapeake Regional Medical Center has mental health professionals available during the day and at night. In the dedicated Psychiatric Emergency Department we look after people who have suicidal thoughts, psychosis, addiction and a variety of other mental health problems. Whatever reason brings you in, you'll get a care plan that is based on your real needs.
At Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, located at 736 Battlefield Blvd. North, Chesapeake, VA 23320, mental health assistance for people who are in crisis.
It helps to know when a situation calls for emergency care. Here are three signs it's time to get help right away:
- You're thinking about suicide and have a plan.
- You're thinking about seriously hurting someone else.
- Your distress limits what you can do to take care of yourself—things like eating, bathing, getting dressed or staying out of harm's way.
If any of these sound like what you're going through, head to the Emergency Department now. Can't get there safely? Call 9-1-1. You can also call or text 988 for crisis support.
What happens in the Emergency Department during a mental health crisis?
Walking into the Emergency Department during a mental health crisis can feel overwhelming. Here's the rundown: the team will check you in, do a health evaluation and make sure nothing medical is making things worse. A medical professional will sit down with you, and if needed, you may have a psychiatric evaluation. If you need more intensive care, we'll help connect you to the right support.
What if I need addiction support?
If you or someone you care about comes into the Emergency Department struggling with opioid use—whether that's heroin, fentanyl or prescription pain medicine—the PROUD (Prevention and Recovery from Opioid Use Disorder) program can help. Chesapeake Regional is the first hospital in the Hampton Roads region and the second in Virginia to use the "Yale model," a Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) approach shown to help people stay in recovery longer. Treatment may include Buprenorphine and a short-term Suboxone prescription. Before you leave, we'll connect you with community partners for follow-up care, usually within 72 hours.
What if I need longer-term care?
Chesapeake Regional’s Behavioral Health Inpatient Unit is designed to support patients whose mental health concerns are disrupting their ability to function. It is an 11,200 square foot therapeutic space designed to promote patient recovery. The unit offers 20 private rooms for adult patients, two activity rooms, a quiet room, a group therapy room and a sensory room–all designed to securely support adults who are experiencing acute mental health concerns.
What to Do If a Loved One Refuses Help
In a perfect world, people would seek care on their own. But some mental health conditions can get in the way of sound decision-making. If your loved one is in the middle of a mental health emergency but won't go to the Emergency Department, you can visit your local magistrate's office and petition for an Emergency Custody Order (ECO). If it's granted, local police can bring the individual to the hospital for an evaluation. For more details, check out the NAMI Guide to Psychiatric Crisis and Civil Commitment Process.
Don't Wait to Get Help
Most mental health emergencies don't come out of nowhere; there are usually warning signs along the way. Getting support early can make a real difference. If things are starting to get worse, reach out to your primary care provider to talk through your treatment plan or medications. Don't have a mental health provider yet? Primary care is a great place to start. And don't sleep on the everyday stuff—therapy, a a warmline (visit 211.org to find one), exercise, your faith community or a trusted friend can all help you stay grounded. You don't have to wait for a crisis to ask for help. The sooner you reach out, the more options you'll have.