I just want to make it clear that these are my opinions, based on my life experiences. I don't meant to throw this thread off track and hope this is not TMI, just feel the need to clarify...

At 13/14 I was placed on an adult psych ward (long story) during that stay I was molested by an offender on that unit. There is no doubt in my mind that I should not have been on that ward, but should he have been? If not me, would his "urges" been taken out on another? What responsibility did the staff have regarding protecting me and the other clients from this individual?

At 14/15 I was was on an adolescent unit at a State Hospital. A client, stuck in delusions and refusing meds, targeted me in her delusions and was convinced that I was the source of her trouble. Keep in mind, at that time I weighed barely 100 pounds, and was very passive and quiet. The other client physically attacked me. Should she have been allowed to refuse meds when she clearly voiced her intent to harm me?

As an adolescent, I had no choices in my treatment. As an adult, I understand I need to be my own advocate.

Perhaps a better solution to finding the right treatment for each individual should be guaranteeing everyone has an advocate, if the individual is unable to advocate for themselves?