Mental Health: Can someone be forced into a psychiatric hospital for suicide?

Can someone be forced into a psychiatric hospital for suicide?my father attempted suicide last night and they said they are taking him to a psychiatric hospital. my fear is, he will refuse to go. my question is, can someone in his condition refuse to go? fyi, i live in virginia.

Answer by Sexy_Jane
absolutely YES

Answer by martinmagini
he could be forced to go. and that would be a good thing for him to be in a safe environment while they get him stabilized.
good luck to you, dear. help your dad...be there for him.

Answer by saved_by_grace
If he is a danger to himself then they can force him in for treatment.

Answer by Jack X
The law says, give or take, that a person can only be involuntarily committed in they pose a direct threat to themselves or others.

This means that they can force him to stay, but once he says he's not going to hurt himself or anyone else(either true or a lie), they can't hold him against his will anymore.

Answer by Christopher G
In Pennsylvania, a person can be involuntarily committed for 72 hours in such a circumstance. That period can be extended after evaluation by mental health professionals. I believe that this is typical of most states. Hopefully, they can help him with his immediate issues, and get him into counseling for long term help.

Good luck with your Dad.

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