Crisis support services reduce ED burden
People facing mental health crises may achieve better outcomes in crisis support services compared to emergency departments (EDs) according to a Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research (QCMHR) study.
Lead Researcher and PhD Student, Danielle Postorivo said the study showed positive visitor experiences in crisis support services, emphasising their potential to provide timely and appropriate care while reducing ED visits.
“Many people experiencing a mental health crisis present to EDs feeling like it is their only avenue for immediate support due to a lack of alternatives.
“ED environments are often chaotic, with long wait times and a lack of privacy which can be counterproductive to providing effective care during a mental health crisis.
“By diverting mental health crises from EDs, these services could significantly reduce pressure on hospital systems,” Ms Postorivo said.
Crisis support services are designed to prioritise compassionate, non-judgemental care, creating a space where people feel heard and supported, are treated as individuals and are equal partners in their care.
People who used these crisis support services reported high satisfaction levels with the empathetic and responsive care they received.
Ms Postorivo said the findings show a need for stronger, more person-centred crisis care that could better serve people experiencing mental health emergencies.
The research offers valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare providers, and mental health advocates working to improve how we respond to mental health crises worldwide.
Given the limited quality of the studies included, further high-quality research is crucial to gain a deeper understanding of the services and validate the findings presented in this review as investment in these services grows within Australia.
Established in 1987, QCMHR is funded by Queensland Health to work state-wide and contribute to the local, national, and global research efforts to improve mental health.
Person-centred crisis support services as alternatives to emergency departments: a systematic scoping review was published in Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology.
For further information:
Danielle Postorivo, Research Officer
Media contact:
Laura Corcoran, Research Communication Officer
0414 504 508,