Understanding Involuntary Mental Health Holds in Oklahoma: What Families Need to Know

If your loved one has been placed on an involuntary mental health hold in Oklahoma, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, confused, or even scared. You may be wondering what’s happening, why it happened, and what you can do next. This guide is here to help.

We’ll explain what an involuntary hold is, when and why it’s used, the steps involved, and what rights your loved one still has. Most importantly, we’ll give you practical ways to support them through this difficult time.

What Is an Involuntary Hold?

In Oklahoma, an involuntary hold—also called an emergency detention—is when someone is taken to a hospital or mental health facility against their will for a short period because they are believed to be a danger to themselves or others, or are too mentally ill to care for themselves.

These holds are not meant to punish or shame. The goal is to keep the person safe and give them access to mental health care when they are unable to seek it themselves.

Oklahoma-Specific Details:

• Initial hold lasts up to 72 hours, not including weekends or holidays.

• The hold can be extended up to 90 days with a court order if longer treatment is needed.

• Holds can happen in public or private hospitals approved by the state for emergency mental health treatment.
  

When Is an Involuntary Hold Necessary?

An involuntary hold is used when someone:

• Is a danger to themselves (for example, talking about suicide or self-harm),

• Is a danger to others (for example, making threats or acting violently), or

• Cannot take care of themselves due to a serious mental illness (for example, not eating, wandering into traffic, or becoming confused and disoriented).

The person may not realize they’re unwell or may refuse help. In these cases, Oklahoma law allows certain professionals to step in to protect them and others by placing them under emergency detention.

Types of Involuntary Holds in Oklahoma

There are a few different types of mental health holds in Oklahoma, depending on the situation. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Initial Emergency Detention (72-Hour Hold)

What it is:

This is the most common type of hold. A person is taken to a mental health facility for up to 72 hours for observation and evaluation.

How it starts:

Law enforcement officers or certain mental health professionals can place someone under emergency detention.

A written statement is completed, explaining why the person appears to be a danger

What happens:

The person is evaluated by a doctor or licensed mental health professional.

Within 72 hours, a decision is made: they may be released, agree to stay voluntarily, or face a longer hold through court.

2. Extended Detention (Court-Ordered 90-Day Hold)

What it is:

If the person still needs care after the 72-hour period, a court can order a longer stay—up to 90 days.

How it starts:

The hospital or treatment center files a petition in court.

A hearing is held to decide if the hold should be extended.

Criteria:

The court must see clear evidence that the person:

• Still poses a danger, or

• Is unable to care for themselves due to mental illness.

The individual has the right to:

• Be notified of the hearing,

• Have a lawyer (one will be appointed if needed),

• Present evidence and speak at the hearing.

How Is an Involuntary Hold Initiated in Oklahoma?

There are two main ways a person can be placed under an involuntary hold:

1. By Law Enforcement

Police officers often respond to mental health emergencies.

If they believe someone is an immediate risk, they can transport them to a hospital for an emergency evaluation without a court order.

Example:

A neighbor calls 911 after seeing someone pacing in the street, shouting at cars and making threats. Officers arrive, assess the risk, and take the person to a crisis center for a 72-hour evaluation.

2. By Mental Health Professionals

Licensed mental health workers (like therapists, crisis responders, or hospital staff) can fill out an “Application for Emergency Detention.”

This includes a detailed description of the person's behavior and why they need emergency care.

Example:

A therapist sees their client in session and realizes the person is suicidal and has a specific plan. The therapist can initiate an emergency detention to get the client help right away.

What Happens During an Involuntary Hold?

Here’s what you can expect if your loved one is placed under an involuntary hold:

Medical and Psychiatric Evaluation

Doctors will assess their mental health.

Staff may run physical exams to rule out other causes (like infections or drug reactions).

Treatment Planning

Medications may be given if necessary.

The treatment team works on a care plan—short-term and possibly long-term.

Safety Monitoring

Staff check on the person regularly to ensure they’re safe.

They may not have access to phones or visitors right away, but this usually changes after the first day or two.

Family Contact

With permission, family may be contacted.

Hospitals often provide updates if your loved one signs a release of information.

What Are the Rights of the Individual?

Even if someone is placed under an involuntary hold, they still have rights. These include:

• The right to be informed of why they’re being held.

• The right to contact a lawyer.

• The right to a court hearing for longer holds.

• The right to humane treatment in a safe environment.

• The right to refuse treatment in some cases, unless a court or doctor deems it necessary for safety.

• These rights are designed to protect people and ensure that no one is held unfairly or mistreated.

What Are the Possible Outcomes?

At the end of the 72-hour period, several things can happen:

• The person is released if they are no longer considered a risk.

• They agree to stay voluntarily for more treatment.

• A court hearing is scheduled for a longer stay (up to 90 days).

• They are transferred to another facility for specialized care.

• The decision depends on how the person is doing, what the doctors recommend, and what legal steps have been taken.

What Should Families and Caregivers Know?

It can be hard to know what to do when a loved one is placed on a hold. Here are some practical steps:

1. Stay Calm and Informed

Ask the hospital for updates (they may require permission).

Keep a record of names, dates, and documents.

Don’t panic—many people recover and get better with help.

2. Show Support

Let your loved one know you care about them.

Don’t argue or blame them for needing help.

If allowed, write a letter or send comforting items.

3. Get Involved in Planning

Ask about discharge planning—what happens when they’re released?

Offer to attend follow-up appointments or help with medication.

Help them find housing, transportation, or therapy if needed.

4. Know Your Resources

Call Oklahoma’s Mental Health Crisis Line at 988.

Contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Oklahoma) for local support groups and family education.

Consider getting help for yourself, too—this is a lot to handle.

Conclusion

An involuntary mental health hold is not the end—it can be the first step toward healing.

If your loved one is placed on a hold in Oklahoma, know that they are being watched over, treated, and evaluated for their safety. You can play a powerful role by learning about the process, supporting them emotionally, and preparing for what comes next.