Trends in nonurgent mental health presentations to emergency departments: insights from the first nationwide study in Germany

The increase in nonurgent mental health emergency cases could be influenced by prevalence and demographic changes, shifts in healthcare-seeking behavior, outpatient undersupply and enhanced documentation of psychiatric diagnoses. Consequently, further detailed analysis of the underlying causes and their implications for such evidence is required. In addition to expanding low-threshold services and public education, improved coordination within the regional care system-particularly through a strengthened gatekeeper role of general practitioners-could play a crucial role.