Table of Contents
Can a patient refuse psychiatric treatment?
Patients have a right to be informed and actively involved in their health care. Fundamental to a person’s dignity and autonomy is the right to make decisions about their psychiatric treatment, including their right to refuse unwanted treatments, providing that the refusal is a capable one.
How can I help someone who doesn’t want to help themselves?
First, if the situation is urgent, seek help immediately by calling 911 or 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-273-TALK. If it’s not an urgent situation, then here’s how you can help them get the support that they need. Listen to them. Don’t make it about yourself or push an agenda.
Can I force someone to go to the hospital?
A person can be involuntarily committed to a hospital if they are a danger to themselves, a danger to others, or gravely disabled. They are considered a danger to themselves if they have stated that they are planning to harm themselves.
What should I do if my teen refuses to go to counseling?
If your teen refuses to go to counseling, don’t despair. You still have several options about how to get help. Seek counseling on your own without your teen. Often, parent-training can be one of the most effective ways to help teens.
What to do if your loved one refuses mental health treatment?
If your loved one refuses to move forward, it’s useful to try to understand what is behind his reasons for refusing treatment and then address those issues. A person may refuse to accept mental health treatment for many reasons, including: He may believe it indicates he is a failure. It may make him feel more vulnerable.
What should I do if my friend is depressed?
If you think your friend is in immediate danger, call 911 or take your friend to the nearest emergency department. Remember: Your friend’s situation is not hopeless. Like other illnesses, depression can be treated with the right medical help and the support of friends like you.
What happens when a family member refuses to get treatment?
When someone you love refuses to get professional treatment for their mental health disorder—such as depression, bipolar disorder, or substance abuse —this can put you, as a family member, in a very uncomfortable and difficult position. You care for the person and can see that he or she needs help, but feel powerless and unable to just stand by.