Involuntary Mental Health Treatment in Mexico

Mental illness and co-occurring substance abuse are major problems that many people face, but they are not problems that exist in a vacuum. Often, people suffering from mental illness and co-occurring substance use have loved ones who have to watch them suffer and feel powerless to do anything about it.

But at Twilight Recovery, we empower loved ones to be able to help those in their lives who are suffering.

Is Involuntary Mental Health Treatment Legal in Mexico?

Yes, involuntary treatment of psychiatric issues such as substance abuse and occurring mental health disorders is legal in Mexico. In contrast to the United States, where many states do have laws to involuntarily hospitalize a person through a court order, a person can be put into a treatment facility without the need to go through the legal system.

Many treatment centers in Mexico allow people to put their loved ones into involuntary hospitalization. There are numerous reasons why a person would do this, but the main motivator behind it is that a mentally ill person gets the treatment that they need to manage their symptoms.

The laws in Mexico give people significant leeway when it comes to seeking treatment for their loved ones, understanding that some people may have impaired judgment and be unable to make decisions that are in their best interests. This approach understands the challenges that many families face when it comes to helping a loved one, especially if they’re struggling with substance use.

Involuntary Treatment In the United States

In contrast to Mexico, a person is not often allowed to force someone else into psychiatric treatment. Often, the courts have to determine that the person is a danger to themselves or to others or they’re so impaired that they’re no longer able to make sound decisions regarding their well-being. Another situation in which a person may be put into treatment against their will is if they are in an acute mental health crisis and need to be stabilized.

The reason for this is that there’s a cultural emphasis on personal liberty in the United States and forcing someone into a mental health facility against their will can be seen as infringing on a person’s liberty.

It should be noted that there are special circumstances under which a person can force someone else into treatment. For example, if a person is a minor, then their parents or legal guardians are well within their rights to force them into treatment.

This is also the case if someone gains legal conservatorship over another person. In this case, a conservator serves as a person’s guardian and can make decisions for them, including getting treatment for mental health problems.

Because certain conditions have to be met to give persons with mental health conditions treatment involuntarily, many can see the commitment process in the United States as restrictive and possibly detrimental to a person’s long-term well-being. For this reason, many people can find that going to another country to make sure that their loved ones get treatment may be their best option.

Why Put Someone Into Involuntary Commitment For Mental Illness

There are a number of reasons why a person would think that forcing a loved one into treatment might be the best course of action. Some of these reasons include:

A Loved One in Denial

Many people can often be in denial about the severity of their mental health conditions, especially substance use disorder. They may say that they’re fine, but the people around them can see that they’re not fine and conclude that their loved one needs immediate mental health care.

Worsening Symptoms

Another reason that a person may put a loved one into treatment regardless of what the loved one wants is if their symptoms worsen. Involuntary psychiatric care may be required if someone’s mental health deteriorates. 

Failure of Outpatient Treatment

In many cases, involuntary mental health services are a last resort. Some people’s illnesses are complex enough that outpatient treatment is not enough to help them recover or even simply manage their conditions. When that happens, a person may need the intensive care and support found in residential treatment, whether they like it or not.

The Benefits Of Involuntary Hospitalization

While forcing someone into treatment for mental disorders may raise some ethical concerns, there are several benefits. These benefits include:

Immediate Stability

A primary benefit of involuntary treatment is that it immediately gives someone access to care and support. This can prevent a person from engaging in self-harm, suicide, and other violent behaviors that might occur due to the severity of their mental health illness. The controlled environment of a hospital ensures that patients are safe and monitored.

Access to Treatment

Patients receive comprehensive and intensive treatment that they might not otherwise be able to access. This includes medication management, therapy, and other interventions to stabilize their condition. The controlled setting allows for a structured and consistent treatment regimen.

In addition, many people whose conditions have gone undiagnosed can be assessed by mental health professionals. A proper assessment and diagnosis are essential to formulate an appropriate treatment plan.

This treatment also gives patients access to medication and the care team can adjust medication and dosages as needed.

Reduced Burden

Family members, who are often untrained in healthcare, can experience significant stress when they provide care for a loved one who has a severe mental illness. Involuntary hospitalization can provide these caregivers with respite and assurance that their loved one is receiving professional care, which reduces the emotional and practical burdens on families.

What is Psychiatric Treatment Like?

In a lot of ways, involuntary treatment is similar to voluntary treatment. Patients are treated with the same interventions and medications as those who enter treatment of their own accord.

The main difference is that many people who are treated against their will are often resentful and resistant to care. Many treatment centers are aware of this resistance and adjust their approach accordingly.

We’ll Help You Help Your Loved One

Many people can feel powerless when they see a loved one struggling with substance abuse and co-occurring mental illness. They may think that there’s nothing they can do if that loved one refuses to seek treatment and the courts drag their feet.

However, there are options available. In countries such as Mexico, the laws are less restrictive and families can take a more proactive approach to helping their loved ones get treatment. At Twilight Recovery, we can help you help someone or your loved one recover. Contact us now and we’ll help you get started.