Care for mental health emergencies in Denver

If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, it is important to get the help you need right away. Both the main ER at Rose Medical Center in Denver and our freestanding Stapleton ER are equipped to keep you safe and provide you with the resources you need to get help.

If you find yourself in a panic and unable to function normally, or if you think you might hurt yourself or someone else, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

What to expect at the ER

Our ER can be a loud and busy environment, so we ask that when you come to us when experiencing a mental health emergency you are aware of that, but please do not let it deter you from seeking the care you need. Upon your arrival, our staff will ask questions to assess how you are doing, and it is extremely important to answer honestly and fully in order for our team of doctors and nurses to provide you the care you need.

Our team may decide to consult with a mental health professional, either via phone or video conference. It is possible that you will speak with many different healthcare professionals, but know that it is all in an effort to keep you safe.

ER visits can take up to several hours. If our ER staff is concerned that you are a danger to yourself, they may decide to confiscate certain personal items that could be used in an effort to harm yourself. We recommend that you bring the following things with you when coming to the ER:

  • Comfortable clothes, including slip-on shoes
  • A book or computer tablet for entertainment
  • A phone or computer charger
  • Headphones and soothing music

What happens after my ER visit?

Some patients will be discharged from the emergency room and be referred to a mental health professional for follow up. It is possible for other patients to be transferred to other units within our hospital or even another facility to receive further mental health care.

The continued aid of a mental health professional provides an ongoing effort to keep yourself safe and provide a pathway to improving your mental health.