Let's make this a discussion forum to help those with Mental Illness

For starter, I think the US laws are inadequate in providing a framework to allow for family members to help those with mental illness.

For example, those with Schizophrenia often don't know they have the problem, or even if told, often refuses to believe in it.  Their mind is playing tricks on them, normal rational don't apply to them.  But if the patient is over 18, parents or other family members cannot force them to seek medical advice or take medicine.  What I think the law should be changed is that, if a person is deemed incapable of mentally taking care of him/herself, then some relative should be able to become a "Medical Guardian" and "make" the patient see doctor, be able to bypass HIPAA rule of patience confidentiality, etc.

I know there are lot of people who have friend or relative with mental illness, attempts to get help to them is often very frustrating as their hands are tied.  There ought to be better ways.  Let's share, discuss and find them!

Bloggers/Authors are invited to join in!
Sn