Oct 31, 2019
I am not being metaphorical. What are your rights when a person,
relative or police officer decides that you need to visit your
local mental health hospital?
For most of us with mild symptoms chances are this is a very small
possibility. But it can happen. It did to one woman.
For those of us with extreme symptoms or have family members that
don't understand our symptoms then it could be a problem. The
purpose of this episode is to help you consider how you want to
handle this situation.
If you need support contact the National Suicide Prevention
Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or
text “START” to 741-741.
Resources Mentioned:
National Public Radio story about woman held in the Emergency Room for
20 days.
Mental Health Declaration of Human
Rights is a statement by the Citizens Commission on Human
Rights
Mental Health America position statement about mental health
care. There is a link on that page about a psychiatric
National Resource Center for Psychiatric Advanced
Directive. This is a document you fill out and can be
used to explain what you want done when there is a mental health
emergency or problem. I would suggest you check out the FAQ
page to get a better understanding of the PAD process.
National Alliance on Medical Health
(NAMI) Legal Issues page, a some of it is what is desired, but
there are items that are locked in by law; depending on what state
or jurisdiction you live in.
Disclaimer:
Links to other sites are provided for information purposes only and
do not constitute endorsements.
Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with
questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health
disorder.
This blog and podcast is intended for informational and educational
purposes only. Nothing in this program is intended to be a
substitute for professional psychological, psychiatric or medical
advice, diagnosis, or treatment.