Youth Crisis Centers

Goal

The centers provide supports and services during the early stages of a mental health crisis before more intensive, costly, and restrictive interventions are required. 

Intent

YCCs have been shown to reduce hospitalization, criminal charges, domestic violence, and child abuse and decrease the need for out-of-home placements.

Vital details

• YCCs are open 24/7/365
• Walk-ins are welcome
• Youth may stay for up to 23 hours and 59 minutes
  • In that time, youth may receive crisis stabilization services, medical screening, assessment support, and referrals for added community-based services
• Parents and caregivers may also receive education and support
• School Resource Officers or Police Officers may transport youth from schools to the centers
• A parent or guardian must be available upon a youth's admission
• Services for youth are 100% voluntary and free of charge

Background

Idaho based its model for the YCCs on SAMHSA's national guidelines for child and youth behavioral health crisis care. national-guidelines-for-behavioral-health-crisis-care-02242020.pdf (samhsa.gov)

The Division of Behavioral Health contracted with Beacon Health Options, Inc., to assess Idaho's current behavioral health crisis system. Beacon Health Options provided direction to help build a statewide system. Beacon pin-pointed region-specific practices, including needs, gaps, opportunities, and national best practices. The results of the assessment and recommendations are presented in the Idaho Crisis System of Care Report.The most immediate effect is the implementation of the YCCs in Idaho. The Division of Behavioral Health is pleased to now include these crisis service locations as a resource for Idaho youth and families.

The Division of Behavioral Health will provide updates and next steps as the system develops.