Now you can make choices in advance about your treatment preferences with an Advance Directive Declaration for Mental Health Treatment.

Who can and cannot be my proxy?

   Your proxy can be any adult person, such as a family member or friend, who is willing to accept this responsibility.  It should be someone that you trust to make important decisions for you.

   The only adult persons that cannot serve as a proxy are your physician and mental health treatment provider(s), an employee of any health care facility where you are being treated, an employee of your physician, a person under the age of 18, or a person who already has a court-appointed guardian

 

What are the benefits of having an Advance Directive Declaration for Mental Health Treatment?

   The first benefit is that you can give written instructions to your mental health care providers about your choices of medication, treatment programs and providers if you choose to do so.

   The second benefit is that you can name a proxy, if you choose, to advocate for your treatment choices or to make decisions in your place when you lack the capacity to do so

 

How does an Advance Directive Declaration for Mental Health Treatment relate to recovery?

   An Advance Directive Declaration for Mental Health Treatment helps you define and recognize the “red flag” behaviors and actually may help you gain knowledge and control of your psychiatric condition while helping others recognize the signs. 

   Developing an Advance Directive Declaration when healthy allows you the opportunity to openly discuss signs and symptoms of your illness, as well as your treatment preferences.  When properly planned and implemented, it is a natural fit with empowerment and recovery.

What if I am unable to make my own mental health care decisions?

You have the right to fill out a form while you are able to act for yourself…your Advance Directive Declaration for Mental Health Treatment.  The form allows you to name a proxy to make your health care decisions if you are unable to do so.

What must be in writing in my Advance Directive?

The following information needs to in writing:

• Your name and county of residence
• If you choose a proxy, the name, address and telephone number of your proxy  (you may want to name one or two alternate proxies)
• Your signature and your name either printed or typed
• Either the document must be notarized by a notary public or two witnesses must sign the form
• The date signed

Is there anyone who cannot be a witness?

Yes.  The following people cannot be a witness for you Advance Directive Declaration for Mental Health Treatment:

Anyone who has suffered from brain disorder/mental illness understands the fear of what would happen if they go into crisis again. It’s the real fear of losing control.

If this sounds like you or someone you know, then maybe you should consider an Advance Directive Declaration for Mental Health Treatment.

Is there a form I can use?

Yes.  There is a standardized form for Ohio. Or, you may choose to customize an Advance Directive with an attorney.   The standardized form is available from the following: