Imagine a task force to develop changes to Oregon laws regarding access issues for people in wheelchairs. It is absurd to envision such a task force comprised of a sole person in a wheelchair while the remainder are able-bodied. Only one person on the task force was a recovered mental patient. The task force suggests the use of legislated force or coercion to get people to take psychiatric drugs. It is wrong to propose a set of rules that support force and coercion.
Force blocks recovery and destroys the trust that is the cornerstone of recovery.
Force creates fear and dependency, not recovery. Force violates our rights, is costly and diverts money from recovery-oriented services. Individuals must be taught ways of coping that will work for them. Some may take psychiatric medication. Others may choose meditation, stress-reducing techniques, vitamin therapy or other forms of holistic health practices.