Allowing Independence in Mental and Behavioral Disorders: Encouraging Self-Determination
People with mental illness are just like any of us. They have rights to self-determination and should be treated as such. This is a question of legal and practical considerations, and it's crucial to navigate these issues with care and respect for individual autonomy.
Respecting Individual Differences
It's important to recognize that everyone thinks differently. In a therapeutic setting, some clients might have unique ways of approaching their daily lives or thoughts about work and interactions. However, as a professional, it's your responsibility to ensure that these methods do not interfere with their well-being or the requirements of their jobs.
For instance, if a patient's 'own way' of doing things is not appropriate or causes them distress, you should point it out without being confrontational. The goal is to guide and educate, not to judge or dictate. This approach helps in fostering a constructive and supportive therapeutic relationship.
Legal and Practical Aspects
From a legal standpoint, if an individual is their own legal guardian, they have the right to make all decisions concerning their life. Similarly, if they have been declared incompetent, a court-appointed guardian may have the legal authority to make decisions on their behalf. It's crucial to understand that not all individuals in distress have gone through the legal process to establish guardianship, and thus, they still have the right to make their own decisions.
In a therapeutic context, it's essential to encourage patients to make their own decisions to foster independence and help them make the best possible choices. However, you must be vigilant and warn them if you see them heading towards harm. This can be done factually and respectfully, using a supportive and non-judgmental approach.
Case Study: A Patient's Journey
Let's consider a case study to illustrate this point further. A 30-year-old individual with schizophrenia had spent the majority of their life in a hospital. They were on the path to reintegration into the community and had to navigate social norms and expectations. One of the tasks was planning a first date for this person.
Initially, the individual chose a movie that was too violent and potentially inappropriate for a date. When their date expressed dissatisfaction, they were devastated and came to understand the need to consider others' preferences more carefully. This experience served as an educational tool, highlighting the importance of examining one's choices and the preferences of others.
It's clear that a supportive and respectful approach is necessary. Offer advice, but remember that ultimately, it's the individual's responsibility to make their own choices. Early in my career, I coordinated a unit in a rehabilitation center for long-term mentally ill individuals. Through such experiences, I learned that guiding patients towards self-determination is a crucial part of their healing journey.
Conclusion
Respecting the rights of individuals with mental illness and providing them with the freedom to make their own decisions is a fundamental aspect of therapeutic practice. By doing so, we not only foster independence but also promote a better understanding of their unique needs and challenges. Understanding the legal framework and the practical implications is key to ensuring that we support these individuals effectively.