Access To Services

Here are some frequently asked questions in regards to access to Adult Mental Health Division’s (AMHD) services:

1. I am (or someone I know is) experiencing a mental health crisis. Who can I call?
2. How can I receive a screening to determine if I am eligible for AMHD services?
3. In general, who does the AMHD serve?
1. I am (or someone I know is) experiencing a mental health crisis. Who can I call?
Hawaii CARES 988 provides a team of trained and experienced professionals to help individuals in times of a mental health crisis. Hawaii CARES 988 is there to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call statewide toll free at 1-800-753-6879 or dial the 3-digit calling code 9-8-8.  The Hawaii CARES 988 website has options for text and chat: https://hicares.hawaii.gov/.  If you are experiencing an emergency or believe you are a danger to yourself and/or others, please call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate assistance.
2. How can I receive a screening to determine if I am eligible for AMHD services?
For questions about eligibility for AMHD services, please contact Utilization Management Assessments for assistance. Calls are answered Monday through Friday at (808) 643-AMHD (808-643-2643). Calls are usually screened then routed to an Assessment Specialist who will speak to you and/or your authorized representative, Monday through Friday. If you call and your call is not answered, please leave a message with your name and telephone number. You will receive a call back within one to two business days. You may call Hawaii CARES 988 state wide toll free at 1-800-753-6879 and talk to a live local representative 24/7 if you are experiencing a crisis. The Hawaii CARES 988 website has options for text and chat: https://hicares.hawaii.gov/. Hawaii CARES 988 is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.You can also go to the nearest Community Mental Health Center or satellite mental health clinic during clinic hours.

If you are experiencing an emergency or believe you are a danger to yourself and/or others, please call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate assistance.
3. In general, who does the AMHD serve?
The AMHD serves, as the state mental health authority, adults needing mental health services.Individuals who receive services from the AMHD are generally:
• Adult individuals who live in the State of Hawaii.
• Individuals who are at least 18 years old. If not, you may be referred to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Division (CAMHD) (https://health.hawaii.gov/camhd).
• Adults who have been diagnosed with a serious mental illness.
• Adults who are court ordered to treatment under Conditional Release, Release on Conditions, Mental Health Court, or Jail Diversion.
• Adults who are uninsured or underinsured.
• Adults who are victims of natural disasters and terrorism.
• Adults who are in a state of crisis and need help for a short time.
You may call Hawaii CARES 988 statewide toll free at 1-800-753-6879 and talk to a live local representative 24/7 if you are experiencing a crisis. The Hawaii CARES 988 website has options for text and chat: https://hicares.hawaii.gov/. Hawaii CARES 988 is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you are experiencing an emergency or believe you are a danger to yourself and/or others, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate assistance.