Same Day Services or mental health Urgent Care may have a more appropriate level of treatment compared to the emergency room.

In case of a crisis when a person is at imminent risk of harm to self or others, please call 911 or Crisis Services (716-834-3131). Read more at Emergency Services under Mental Illness Basics

Many times going to the Emergency Room (ER) is not necessary to receive the assessment and/or treatment you require. By accessing Same Day Services or mental health Urgent Care (hospital diversion), you may receive a more appropriate level of treatment. Same Day Access or Urgent Care is especially helpful when individuals are in recovery, adapting to a new medication, recently discharged from a hospital, reluctant to seek treatment, unable to keep an appointment, or are reluctant to seek treatment in traditional settings.   The ER is for crisis stabilization and potential hospitalization only, and not for more comprehensive ongoing treatment. In addition, you may avoid a potentially long wait in the emergency room.

Same Day Access for behavioral healthcare and substance use disorders is available at most outpatient treatment providers. Same Day Access means you can make an appointment to be seen on the same day or in some cases by simply walking in. People are more apt to keep an appointment made the same day, avoid seeking care at an emergency room, and receive more comprehensive care in a timelier manner.

Urgent Care is for people experiencing mental health distress, especially anxiety and depression, or an immediate need for medication or medication management. Urgent Care does not take the place of the ER, although professional staff at Urgent Care sites will direct you to the ER if you require that level of care.

Same Day Access Resources:
Since most mental health and substance use disorder organizations have Same Day Access, please refer to providers in Treatment Resources, then call or go online to find locations and hours.