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Originally Posted by JMIR
Hi, his symptins are more mania, can't sleep, pacing and paranoia. He is on Tegretol, Resperdole ? , Seroquel and one other. It is going on day 8 of his hospitalization and he has gotten worse. Not sure what changes to meds the physician is making, he tells us that if my friend does not provide approval to speak with a family member then he can't, as in his wife or father. How freaking illogical is that? He admitted himself to the hospital and this physician is saying it is the law, blah, blah and if he wants to get out, then he cannot stop him. There is no one to take care of him! This is horrible! Any ideas on the many points I just made?
Thanks, JMIR
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Is your friend not in a fit state to discuss meds and that is why they need to speak to a family member? You are right. That does sound completely illogical and I sense your worry and frustration. I am assuming you are in the US. I am not well-versed on American Mental Health Legislation as I reside in Australia, but you can contact a local advocacy group. Most advocacy groups whether they be general mental health advocacy or primarily for people with Bipolar, they usually have a good understanding of the law. The hospital can only keep him in involuntarily if he is a danger to himself or others. If he is feeling worse, then they should keep him in for support and observation.
An advocacy group will also be able to speak on behalf of your friend or on behalf of you, depending on their stature with the law.
Keep going Jmir. I know you are worried, but some practical methods for resolving this problem and getting the right help for your friend will help you feel proactive.
Let me know how you go and take care,
Michah