What are the requirements for an involuntary commitment?

In Tennessee, an involuntary commitment is when someone with a mental illness is committed to a mental health facility against their will. This is usually done if the individual poses a risk to themselves or others. In order for an individual to be involuntarily committed, at least two mental health professionals must evaluate the individual, including a mental health professional and a physician. They must determine if the individual is mentally ill, and if they have a mental health condition that could pose a risk to themselves or others. The mental health professional can include a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, or mental health nurse. In addition to the evaluation by mental health professionals, a court filing must be made and approved by a judge. The individual can contest the involuntary commitment in court. The individual must be brought to court for a hearing, and the judge must find that the individual meets the criteria for an involuntary commitment. After an involuntary commitment is ordered, the individual is placed in an appropriate mental health facility for care. Usually, they are hospitalized for up to 30 days. During the hospitalization period, the individual is monitored and treatment is provided to address their mental health condition. The individual may also be prescribed medication to help with their mental health condition. An involuntary commitment should only be used as a last resort, when other forms of treatment have failed or have been unsuccessful. It is important to note that an involuntary commitment is done to protect the health and safety of the individual and others, and is not meant to punish the individual.

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What are the requirements for an involuntary commitment?

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