What is a mental health advance directive?

A mental health advance directive is a tool that people in Virginia can use to have a say in their mental health care. It is a legal document that enables them to make informed decisions about their care, even when they are not able to communicate their wishes. It is also known as a “psychiatric advance directive”. The document permits people to provide instructions to health care providers ahead of time, and to name a person to make decisions on their behalf if necessary. When completed, the mental health advance directive can be filed with the circuit court in the jurisdiction where the individual resides. This document can be helpful for those who wish to remain in control of their mental health care, even in times when they may not have the capacity to make decisions. The directions provided in the mental health advance directive can be very specific, including preferences for treatments, medications, and other services. This document can also provide instructions for how hospitalization is to be handled, and express preferences for who is to make decisions when the person can not do so. Mental health advance directives are an important part of mental health care planning because they provide individuals with the opportunity to make their own decisions and ensure that their wishes are respected. It is important to keep in mind that the mental health advance directive is not intended to take the place of a mental health professional’s advice. Instead, it is meant to complement and support decision-making in times when individuals are not able to communicate their wishes.

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What is a mental health advance directive?

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