In response to Dr. Christopher Gordon’s letter ‘Invitation to a Dialogue: Forcing Treatment’

In response to Dr. Christopher Gordon’s letter ‘Invitation to a Dialogue: Forcing Treatment’ (http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/30/opinion/invitation-to-a-dialogue-forcing-treatment.html?_r=0) I must agree with his point, “But for most patients experiencing psychotic states, mandated treatment may create more problems than it solves.” However, when assisted outpatient treatment laws are written well, they protect those who would not qualify for forced treatment while providing needed treatment for those who are not able to get treatment on their own due to lack of awareness of their illness. As to the exact percentage of people who would qualify for assisted treatment I am not convinced that the numbers that are currently reported accurately reflect all those who are on the streets, in jail, in-and-out of care, or in the morgue. Dr. Gordon also points out that, “For many medical conditions, better outcomes occur when patients share in treatment design and disease management.” Again, I agree with this statement once an afflicted individual has had an opportunity to get treatment and has been able to reduce or eliminate psychotic episodes to the point they are able to contribute. I use my own son as an example. Being treatment resistant, there was no reasoning with him about anything let alone treatment. We were the crazy ones. It was only when he had been compliant, for a period of time, to a medication that worked for him were we able to involve him in treatment decisions. Because only then was he able to reason. Assisted Treatment Laws need to be well written so that those who do not need medication will not be forced to take it. Improvements need to be made in screening and early interventions need to be in place and available to parents for the best possible outcome for their afflicted loved one and themselves. Parents need to be given a voice in the intervention and treatment process. To say that, “Mandated treatment is a blunt instrument that may drive more people away from seeking care than it compels into care.” is to say that we need to have the best AOT laws so that everyone has a chance to get the treatment they need. With or without assistance. The cycle of homelessness, jail, and brief hospitalizations is not conducive to a successful treatment plan for anyone. It is, however, an excellent way to die.