Ending involuntary psychiatric hospitalization for grave disability in futile cases

What is it about?

Involuntary psychiatric hospitalization aim to protect people with mental illness who pose a danger to themselves or others or who cannot take care of themselves (i.e., gravely disabled). Although many may benefit from this intervention, some with treatment resistant illness do not improve despite repeated hospitalization. Psychiatrists should stop involuntarily hospitalizing people who cannot care for themselves if it is clear that multiple prior hospitalizations have not been helpful. Involuntary care in these scenarios not only fails to benefit the individual but also comes at a societal cost, exacerbating existing bed shortages and perpetuating systemic inequalities. Instead, we should apply principles of psychiatric futility and palliative care to provide more humane and person-centered treatment.

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Why is it important?

Involuntary psychiatric hospitalization is a significant intervention that deprives people of their personal liberties. It is important to deploy this intervention only when it is necessary and is likely to be effective.