Nashville, TN, October 22, 2025
News Summary
Nashville has inaugurated a new Children and Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit to address urgent mental health needs for children aged 4 to 17. This facility, the second of its kind in Tennessee, offers 24/7 support without financial barriers for families in crisis. With 15 beds and advanced safety features, the unit aims to stabilize children within one to three days while enabling access to ongoing support. The opening marks a significant step in improving youth mental health resources in the community.
Nashville has officially opened its new Children and Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit, a facility designed to support families in crisis and address the urgent mental health needs of children and youth aged 4 to 17. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Tuesday, marking this significant development in the realm of youth mental health care. This unit is the second of its kind in Tennessee, following the establishment of the first unit in Knoxville.
The unit aims to provide 24/7 mental health resources, ensuring that help is available regardless of an individual’s ability to pay. The importance of such resources has been emphasized by health professionals, who highlight that access can dramatically change a child’s life and the circumstances of their families. The facility is expected to become fully operational within 30 days, although it currently lacks an official opening date.
According to state data, one in six kids aged 6 to 17 experiences a mental health disorder each year. Alarmingly, suicide stands as the second leading cause of death among children aged 10 to 17 in Tennessee. In light of these statistics, the Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Use Services has recognized an increasing need for treatment facilities that can address crises stemming from anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
The new crisis stabilization unit features 15 beds and two observation beds for high-risk patients, all designed with security and a calming environment in mind. The facility includes state-of-the-art door systems that monitor access, anti-barricade doors, and safety features in bathrooms and showers. Most stays at the unit are planned to last one to three days, with a focus on stabilizing children and directing families toward ongoing support.
In addition to the medical resources, the unit’s design includes a therapy dog and donations from the Nashville Public Library to create a nurturing and safe environment. Families can seek help at the unit without any financial barriers, providing critical assistance for those in need.
Statistical Context
Highlighting the necessity for such a facility, the data indicating mental health challenges in children is stark. The prevalence of mental health disorders among youth, coupled with rising suicide rates, underscores a pressing need for mental health support tailored to young populations.
Facility Overview
The Children and Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit is equipped with features aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of its young patients. This includes:
- 15 beds for stabilization
- Two observation beds for high-risk patients
- Advanced safety features including anti-barricade doors
- Monitoring systems for secure access
- A therapy dog to aid in comfort and support
Community and Family Support
The opening of this facility reflects a commitment to mental health within the community. It serves as a vital resource, assuring families that they can turn to the unit during critical times without facing financial hurdles. The focus is not only on immediate care but also on facilitating long-term support and guidance for families moving forward.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline remains a vital resource available to individuals in crisis, accessible by calling or texting 988, providing 24/7 support.
FAQ
What is the Children and Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit?
The Children and Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit is a facility in Nashville offering mental health resources to children and youth aged 4 to 17.
Who can use the unit?
The unit is available to children aged 4 to 17, regardless of their family’s financial situation.
What are the operating hours of the unit?
The unit operates 24/7 to provide constant mental health support to those in need.
What is the typical length of stay at the unit?
Most stays at the unit are planned to last one to three days, focusing on stabilization and ongoing support.
Are there costs associated with using the unit?
There is no cost to families for using the unit, allowing access irrespective of financial means.
What additional support does the unit provide?
The facility includes a therapy dog and resources from the Nashville Public Library to promote a comforting environment.
Key Features of the Children and Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Operating Hours | 24/7 Mental Health Support |
| Age Range | Children aged 4 to 17 |
| Number of Beds | 15 beds and 2 observation beds |
| Length of Stay | 1 to 3 days planned stays |
| Cost | No cost for families |
| Safety Features | State-of-the-art monitoring systems and anti-barricade doors |
| Support Services | Includes a therapy dog and community resources |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WSMV: Hope Starts Here Mental Health Emergency Center for Children Opens in Nashville
- Wikipedia: Mental Health
- WKRN: New Nashville Center to Support Kids in Mental Health Crisis
- Tennessean: Merger of Behavioral Health Nonprofits Centerstone and Brightli
- NewsChannel5: Nashville Health Department Brings Mental Health Resources to Woodbine Community
Author: HERE Nashville
The NASHVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENashville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Nashville, Davidson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as CMA Fest, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, and Nashville Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and Nashville Health Care Council, plus leading businesses in healthcare, automotive, and technology that power the local economy such as HCA Healthcare, Bridgestone Americas, and Asurion. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HEREMemphis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
