How to help someone enter into therapy

When someone you care about needs help, you may find it very difficult to know which steps to take. Looking away and doing nothing has become all too easy in our society. Let's change all this and make it commonplace to reach out to others and say, "I'm concerned about you, is there anything I can do to help?"

Long ago when families and extended families were an integral part of society, there would be elders who would get together and discuss a plan of action to help those in need. In modern times, we have become an isolated society with "every man for himself."

  1. It is difficult to generalize about all of the situations in which you may find yourself feeling worried about the mental health of someone close to you. However, if you are feeling concerned then some action should be taken if for no other reason than to show you care. Many people today are afraid of sticking their neck out and intruding. But if you are truly concerned about someone, then you are being compassionate to let him or her know. Remember that this person may still feel the stigma surrounding therapy and you will have to tread lightly.
  2. Also, remember that many individuals will tell you that you should mind your own business. But if someone close to you is suffering, then it is okay to try to offer some assistance. If it is rejected by a grown person then you may have to let it go and realize that you are not responsible for another adult who does not want help.
  3. There are some circumstances where the law gives you additional leverage in regard to helping a mentally ill person. If you know someone who has a mental disorder and is a danger to himself, or to others then that person can be admitted to a hospital by a mental health professional or by the police for either 72 hours, or for a 2 week period (granted by a judge).
  4. In addition, if a person has a mental disorder and is gravely disabled (meaning that they cannot provide for their own food, clothing or shelter) and there is no "significant other" willing to provide these necessities, then he or she can be admitted to a hospital for a 3 day or 2 week period.
  5. Children under 18 can be admitted to a hospital against their will if they have a mental disorder, but they have a right to a hearing before a judge to determine whether the hospitalization is necessary. It is not a pleasant situation to seek help to force someone into a hospital so let';s focus on trying to get help voluntarily.

It's easy to speak with a behavioral health provider right now.

 

Source: 1-800-Therapist
Reviewed Date: June 29, 2010
Reviewed By: Barb Hansen, BScMLT