Groundbreaking commenced on the latest Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) in El Cajon, marking a pivotal expansion in San Diego County's commitment to behavioral health infrastructure. Partnering with various agencies, the County aims to provide an alternative to hospitals and jails for individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis. Slated to open in fall 2025, this will be the first CSU in East County and will complete the Health and Human Agency's plan to have such facilities in all six regions, as reported by the County of San Diego.
The 14,000-square-foot building is poised to become a haven for those in critical need, designed to quickly and effectively stabilize patients. Caroline Smith, interim deputy chief administrative officer for HHSA, highlighted the impact of these units, telling the County of San Diego, "For example, what we’ve seen in North County where we’ve opened three CSUs is that transfers by law enforcement officers to the psych hospital are down nearly 40% since 2022." She noted the ripple effect of these units in alleviating the strain on hospitals.
Available 24/7, CSUs offer comprehensive services, including intervention, medication assistance, therapy, and peer support. Upon stabilization, they act as connectors to ongoing patient care. Director of the County’s behavioral health services, Luke Bergmann, PhD., emphasized the role of CSUs in the larger continuum of care strategy, which involves a spectrum of long-term and inpatient psychiatric services intended to facilitate recovery and better well-being. In his words, he stated they are tasked to actively engage and route people to continued care after stabilization, as per the County of San Diego.
The wholesome budget of roughly $29 million for the East crisis unit not only emphasizes healthcare priorities but also a commitment to the environment. As planned, the building will exceed LEED certification requirements and have a “Zero Net Energy” footprint with rooftop solar panels. The groundbreaking event saw various officials and agencies in attendance, showcasing the wide-reaching support for the project, from law enforcement to healthcare providers like Grossmont Hospital and construction partners Balfour Beatty Construction.
