Alcohol-Related Psychiatric Emergencies: Differences in Characteristics Between Those Arriving at a Walk-in Clinic During and Outside Office Hours

This study analyzes 42 patients with alcohol-related problems who used a walk-in psychiatric emergency clinic. Nearly two-thirds attended outside of office hours. After hour patients were more often depressed, had other psychiatric symptoms, had recently attempted suicide, had social problems, & at assessment were threatening suicide. Those who were seen during office hours more often had medical problems relating to their alcohol dependence. 24 hour service seems necessary for this group. (VM)