5150 California is a term used to refer to the state of California's involuntary psychiatric hold law which allows for individuals to be detained for 72 hours for evaluation and treatment if they are deemed to be a danger to themselves or others or are gravely disabled. The term 5150 is derived from the California Welfare and Institutions Code Section 5150, which outlines the criteria for involuntary holds. The law is often used in cases of mental illness, severe drug or alcohol abuse, or other mental health crises. For a 5150 hold to be implemented, a qualified mental health professional must examine the individual and decide based on the aforementioned criteria. Once detained, the individual receives psychiatric care and is evaluated further to determine what additional services they may need. The goal of 5150 is to ensure that individuals at risk of harm receive the help they need on time while maintaining their safety and that of the public.