Jordan Ellis
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, it can be difficult to know what to do. In an emergency, it is always best to call emergency services, especially if someone is in danger of harming themselves or others. Most mental hospitals require a referral from a mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or social worker, for a person to be admitted. However, if someone is in immediate danger, they should call 911 or go to their nearest emergency room. If someone is having thoughts of suicide, they can call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or text the Crisis Text Line. In non-emergency situations, you can file a petition to get someone committed by visiting the courthouse in the district where the person you are concerned about lives.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can recommend psychiatric hospitalization? | Family members, friends, police, and emergency responders |
| When can someone be hospitalized against their will? | If they meet the criteria set forth by the state they live in, and every state has civil commitment standards. |
| What are the criteria for civil commitments? | Presenting an imminent danger to oneself or others, or refusing needed treatment for mental illness |
| What is the involuntary commitment process? | An emergency psychiatric evaluation of the individual, inpatient treatment, and assisted outpatient treatment |
| What to do if someone is in immediate danger? | Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room |
| What if it is not an emergency? | File a petition to get someone committed |
| What to do if a loved one refuses to go? | Involuntary commitment |
| What to do before checking into a facility? | Get a physical exam and ask staff members about the treatment process |
| What to do when deciding whether to go to the hospital? | Talk to a healthcare professional, such as a therapist, psychiatrist, or primary care provider |
| What is usually required for admission? | A referral from a healthcare professional or mental healthcare team |
| What is the first step when checking into a hospital? | A medical check-up |
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What You'll Learn
Involuntary admission criteria
Involuntary admission to a psychiatric hospital is a complex process that requires careful consideration and collaboration between legal and medical professionals. The criteria for involuntary admission vary across different regions, but there are some common themes and procedures that are typically followed.
In most cases, involuntary admission is initiated by a third party outside the psychiatric hospital, such as law enforcement, first responders, or a licensed healthcare professional. In some jurisdictions, family members or loved ones can also initiate the process if they believe the individual is a danger to themselves or others, or is gravely disabled and unable to care for themselves. It is important to note that the specific criteria for admission may vary depending on the facility and the region's laws.
Before initiating involuntary admission, it is essential to seek help from appropriate professionals. Speak with a psychiatrist, lawyer, or law enforcement officer to understand the specific laws and procedures in your region. These experts can guide you through the process and determine if involuntary commitment is the best course of action for the person of concern.
The process of involuntary admission typically involves three major steps: an emergency psychiatric evaluation, inpatient treatment, and assisted outpatient treatment. The psychiatric evaluation is conducted to assess the individual's mental health and determine if they meet the criteria for involuntary admission. This evaluation is usually carried out by a psychiatrist or a licensed mental health professional.
During the evaluation, the mental health professional will consider factors such as the presence of a mental disorder, the individual's decision-making capacity, the risk of harm to self or others, and the necessity for immediate treatment. It is important to act quickly to ensure the safety of the individual and provide effective crisis care.
In some countries, such as Portugal and Sweden, specific criteria must be met for involuntary admission. These criteria may include the presence of a severe mental disorder, the individual's refusal or inability to consent to treatment, and the potential for significant deterioration if left untreated. The final decision for compulsory hospitalization is typically made by a judge or a representative of the state, based on the recommendations of psychiatrists and mental health professionals.
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Referral from a healthcare professional
If you are concerned about a loved one's health and believe they need to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital, you can recommend a short-term commitment if they are in danger of harming themselves or others. Most mental hospitals require a referral from a healthcare professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or social worker, for a person to be admitted.
If you believe your loved one needs to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital, you can start by seeking help from a mental health professional. They will be able to assess your loved one's mental health and determine if hospitalization is necessary. This could involve an emergency psychiatric evaluation, where the individual is picked up by police or emergency responders and placed in emergency custody for assessment.
If your loved one is assessed by a mental health professional and deemed to require hospitalization, the professional will provide a referral to a suitable psychiatric hospital. This referral will include a detailed assessment of the person's mental health and a recommendation for admission. It is important to note that the criteria for admission may vary depending on the facility and the state in which you live.
In some cases, involuntary commitment may be necessary if your loved one refuses to go to a psychiatric facility despite their mental illness rendering them vulnerable to harm. Involuntary commitment typically involves three key components: an emergency psychiatric evaluation, inpatient treatment, and assisted outpatient treatment. To initiate this process, you can file a petition in your state or call emergency services if the situation is dire.
It is important to remember that hospitalization is just one aspect of mental health treatment, and there are other options available, such as residential treatment facilities or outpatient programs. The right course of treatment will depend on the individual's specific needs and circumstances.
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Types of psychiatric facilities
Psychiatric hospitals, also known as mental health hospitals, behavioural health hospitals, or asylums, are medical facilities that treat severe mental disorders. These hospitals vary in size and classification, with some specialising in short-term or outpatient therapy, while others provide long-term care for patients requiring routine assistance or a controlled environment. Psychiatric hospitals can be further classified into high-security hospitals, medium-secure units, and low-secure units.
High-Security Hospitals
High-security hospitals are reserved for patients who pose a significant danger to themselves or others and are often subjected to involuntary commitment and treatment. Examples of high-security psychiatric hospitals in the UK include Ashworth Hospital, Broadmoor Hospital, Rampton Secure Hospital, and the State Hospital in Carstairs, Scotland.
Medium-Secure Units
Medium-secure units are the most prevalent type of psychiatric facility in the UK. They provide both crisis admissions and medium-term care on acute admissions wards. These units cater to patients with varying severities of mental illness, including those who require immediate evaluation and treatment.
Low-Secure Units
Low-secure units are found in Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands. These facilities offer a less intensive level of care compared to high and medium-secure units.
Psychiatric Wards
Psychiatric wards, also known as psych wards or behavioural health wards, are specialised units within general hospitals that offer psychiatric services. These wards provide short-term inpatient psychiatric services and intensive care for patients whose needs cannot be met in an outpatient setting. Psychiatric wards may also be found within psychiatric hospitals, offering a range of care options, including inpatient and outpatient programs.
Long-Term Care Facilities
Long-term care facilities are designed for individuals with severe and continuous mental health struggles. These hospitals provide comprehensive care over an extended period, with a higher level of support, care, and patient-centred focus. This type of facility aims for treatment and rehabilitation within a short timeframe, typically two to three years.
Community-Based Halfway Houses
Community-based halfway houses provide assisted living and aid in the transition to self-sufficiency for patients with mental illnesses. These institutions are considered a crucial part of the mental health system by many psychiatrists.
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Petitioning for involuntary commitment
The first step in petitioning for involuntary commitment is to seek professional help. Speak with a mental health expert, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or social worker, to get a better understanding of the individual's condition and the options available. These professionals can provide a detailed assessment of the person's mental health and determine if involuntary commitment is the best course of action. It is also advisable to consult a lawyer, preferably one with experience in mental health legislation, who can guide you through the legal process and ensure you are following the correct procedures.
If it is determined that involuntary commitment is necessary, you can file a petition with the court. Visit the courthouse in the district where the person you are concerned about lives and ask the clerk for the proper petition forms. Provide all the requested information about the individual, including any assessments or recommendations from mental health professionals. The emergency psychiatric evaluation is a crucial step in the involuntary commitment process, as it helps professionals understand the individual's mental state and make informed decisions about their treatment.
In some cases, emergency services may need to be involved. If you feel that the person is in immediate danger or is a threat to themselves or others, calling for emergency assistance can initiate the process of involuntary commitment. Police and emergency responders can make recommendations to a mental health facility, especially in suicidal or life-threatening situations. It is important to provide a clear and calm description of the situation to the professional staff involved.
Throughout this process, it is essential to remember that deciding to commit someone involuntarily is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. Involuntary commitment should be considered only when all other options have been exhausted, and the individual's well-being is at stake. It is a last resort to ensure the safety and health of the person in question.
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Voluntary admission
Before entering a facility voluntarily, a person must undergo an assessment and meet certain criteria for psychiatric hospitalization. This includes having a confirmed mental illness, requiring inpatient treatment under a psychiatrist, and meeting the criteria for involuntary psychiatric care but agreeing to be hospitalized under voluntary admission. Most mental hospitals require a referral from a mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or social worker, for a person to be admitted. A detailed assessment of the person’s mental health is necessary, and a mental health facility may also want you to provide a recommendation for admission to the hospital before admittance.
If you are considering voluntary admission, you can approach a psychiatric facility, emergency room, or outpatient clinic and request help. In some cases, a therapist or physician may recommend voluntary commitment. The facility will then conduct an intake to assess whether voluntary inpatient treatment is appropriate, including a mental health evaluation by licensed professionals. Once deemed appropriate, the individual signs consent forms for voluntary psychiatric care, outlining their participation in the treatment plan and conditions for discharge.
As a voluntary patient, you have the right to request your release from the hospital. The hospital must inform you of this right and, in some places, provide help with writing a release request. Your letter can be short, but it must be addressed to the hospital’s Medical Director, stating that you want to leave. Hospital staff, with approval from your county Mental Health Board, will decide whether or not to release you or to ask the court for an order to keep you at the hospital.
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Frequently asked questions
Seek help immediately. If the person is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If the person is having thoughts of suicide, you can also call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or text a crisis helpline.
The criteria vary depending on the facility and the state. Typically, admission is considered if the individual is a danger to themselves or others. Some states also consider involuntary hospitalization if the individual is refusing treatment for mental illness.
Involuntary admission occurs when a patient refuses to go to a psychiatric facility, but a mental health professional determines that their mental illness renders them vulnerable to harm.
You can call emergency services if you feel someone is in danger to themselves or others. You can also file a petition in your state to start the involuntary commitment process. This process typically involves an emergency psychiatric evaluation of the individual, inpatient treatment, and assisted outpatient treatment.
If the person voluntarily checks into a mental health facility, you can look at the treatment website to see what to bring and what to expect. When the person is committed, describe the situation as calmly as possible to the professional staff.
