Psychiatric Will refers to a legal document that outlines a person's wishes regarding their mental health care and treatment in the event that they become unable to make decisions for themselves due to a psychiatric condition. It is a specialized form of advance directive that focuses specifically on mental health care.
A Psychiatric Will typically includes instructions on how an individual wants to be treated during a mental health crisis, which could involve preferences regarding medication, psychotherapy, hospitalization, and other forms of treatment. It may also specify the individual's preferences regarding the use of physical restraints or seclusion, if ever necessary.
The purpose of a Psychiatric Will is to ensure that a person's wishes regarding their mental health care are respected and upheld, even if they lose the capacity to make decisions at some point in the future. It can also serve as a tool for communicating personal values, religious beliefs, and cultural preferences that may influence treatment decisions.
Psychiatric Wills are typically created by individuals who have a known or diagnosed mental health condition, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or severe depression. However, anyone can create a Psychiatric Will as a precautionary measure to ensure their preferences are known and honored.
It is important to consult with legal professionals or mental health advocates when creating a Psychiatric Will to ensure the document meets legal requirements and adequately reflects personal preferences.
