Characteristics of Adult Residential Crisis Stabilization Units in Virginia

S.A. Larocco
October, 2018

PRODUCED BY THE
Institute of Law, Psychiatry, and Public Policy at the University of Virginia

In recent years there have been dramatic increases in admissions to both public and private hospitals. Residential crisis stabilization units (CSUs) have been suggested as a possible solution to this problem, allowing an alternative environment where people in crisis can go instead of the hospital. This report explores the characteristics of Virginia’s adult CSUs, including the populations they work with and the features and resources that allow them to do their work. CSUs work with patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder or substance use disorder, but they are not equipped to care for patients with medical complexities.