É«ÖÐɫ’s Santa Cruz County Crisis Stabilization Program (CSP) and Psychiatric Health Facility (PHF) are excited to introduce the "Strive For Five Trophy." This symbol of achievement is awarded to the program that demonstrates the most prolonged period without resorting to mechanical restraints, emphasizing a commitment to safer and more effective care.

The programs have adopted the "Strive for Five" approach, which includes five essential de-escalation principles. This initiative sparks friendly competition between units, encouraging the most effective utilization of these techniques while reducing the frequency of mechanical restraint usage. Daily monitoring of program activities rewards them with points for each restraint-free day. The program that accumulates the most points or days without mechanical restraints becomes the proud recipient of the trophy, retaining it until a worthy challenger emerges.

The trophy was awarded to Santa Cruz County CSP in a recent ceremony, celebrating 79 consecutive days without mechanical restraints. Their dedication currently surpasses PHF's, which has achieved 39 days without such restrictions.

This innovative approach harnesses the team's competitive spirit to champion a noble cause within the mental health community. É«ÖÐÉ« commends the remarkable commitment of both programs and their participants in promoting safer and more compassionate mental health care practices.