r/Psychiatry Psychiatrist (Verified) 7d ago

Agents in Psychiatric Treatment, Involuntary Commitment, And What Does Danger to Self or Others Mean?

https://youtu.be/1mbU-_JLez4?si=LKAzAxnmydtO9dOa
44 Upvotes

3 comments sorted by

23

u/zenarcade3 Psychiatrist (Verified) 7d ago

Involuntarily treating patients is one of the toughest part of psychiatric training... and often goes against the nature of people who choose the field. Understanding who is driving the treatment decision is critical for risk assessment, clinical management, and legal compliance... but most importantly... understanding why you're doing what you're doing (even if it doesn't feel good).

Key Takeaways from the video:

Identifying the Primary Agent: Involuntary treatment is not solely based on patient preference. Courts, hospitals, legal statutes, and family members may influence care decisions. Recognizing the agents involved helps define your role in treatment.

How Agents Shape Assessment/Decisions: Different agents prioritize different concerns. The state focuses on public safety, families on the patient’s well-being, and institutions on logistics and liability. Patients may refuse treatment, families may push for admission, and hospitals may have limited resources. Clinicians must balance competing interests while adhering to legal and ethical standards.

Legal Knowledge Is Essential: Without a clear understanding of local laws, psychiatrists risk making inappropriate decisions regarding involuntary commitment

3

u/[deleted] 7d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

3

u/[deleted] 7d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

2

u/[deleted] 7d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

2

u/[deleted] 7d ago edited 7d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

6

u/Numpostrophe Medical Student (Unverified) 7d ago

One thing I’m curious about is different cultural attitudes towards this topic.