Riverside Health System held a ribbon-cutting ceremony earlier this month for Virginia’s first stand-alone Psychiatric Emergency Department, set to open this fall in Hampton. More than 200 people, including Gov. Glenn Youngkin and other dignitaries, leaders and mental health and substance-use advocates and providers, joined Riverside for the dedication of this facility.

The new Psychiatric ED is connected to Riverside Mental Health & Recovery Center (RMHRC) on Executive Drive in Hampton. The 15,800-square-foot facility is specifically designed to care for patients age five and older who are struggling with mental health concerns and substance abuse.

Separate treatment areas for adults and pediatrics include a total of 20 treatment areas, open community areas, sensory rooms and secure outdoor areas designed for de-escalation, and on-site lab services.

The facility will be open 24 hours, seven days a week, and will be staffed with mental health professionals equipped to e...