What is a mental health advance directive?

A mental health advance directive is a legal document that lets individuals with mental health conditions express their wishes about their future mental health treatment. It is created by an individual in anticipation of a mental health crisis or while actively managing a mental health condition. It is a way for someone to pre-plan their mental health care and to prepare the people around them to fulfill their wishes even if they are unable to express them in the moment. In Tennessee, a mental health advance directive is a powerful way to ensure that you receive the care and treatment that you want if you find yourself in a situation where you are unable to express those wishes. It allows you to express your wishes about mental health treatments, including medications, mental health services, and hospitalization if and when it is necessary. It can also include instructions for how healthcare providers should contact your family or friends in case of emergency. A mental health advance directive can be created with help from a lawyer, mental health professional, or with some online tools available. Once created, you should make sure to give copies to your family, primary care provider, mental health provider, and anyone else that might need them. You should explain to them what it is, and keep it updated as your wishes and preferences may change over time.

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What is a mental health advance directive?

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