Recently Posted to SSRN:
This paper proposes a new standard for involuntary treatment, one
that does not include a requirement of physical harm. Instead it
requires that individuals are experiencing their first major episode of a
psychiatric disorder. A first episode standard would allow for the
involuntary treatment of individuals who are (1) over 18, (2) mentally
ill (the presence of a mental disorder that diminishes a person’s
ability to reason, resulting in an impairment of functioning), and (3)
have never received psychiatric treatment for the disorder. This
standard would soften the trauma of a first episode, assisting families
in their attempts to intervene before their loved ones’ lives are in
complete disarray and their episodes escalate to the point of violence.
It would expand access to early, effective treatment, giving individuals
experiencing their first major episodes the best chance for a healthy
long-term prognosis. And, a first episode standard would
save taxpayers’ money.
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