Instruction:
How do I obtain help for an adult relative with a serious mental illness?

Response:
In order to obtain assistance, it is critical that the individual receive a medical diagnosis from a professional mental health provider.  For adults, this is complicated by the fact that every adult individual has the right to refuse medical care.  A person suffering from a severe mental illness will often refuse care due to their delusions and paranoia.  Frequently, concerned family members must wait until the relative has a serious psychotic episode at which time they can contact emergency services and have the individual evaluated as a threat to themselves or others. At this point, it might be possible for the government to compel the individual to be diagnosed and receive mental health treatment.