The
law supports the right of any person to decide
what medical and mental health treatment he or
she will receive, unless the person is
determined by a judge or doctor to lack the
competence to make those decisions due to severe
illness.
If you think it is possible that you might at
some time be hospitalized and found not to have
the ability to make your own treatment
decisions, you can make these decisions NOW
while you are able to do so.
This is done through a document called an
Advance Directive, which allows you to write
down now what you want to have happen to you
later. It also allows you to name a trusted
friend or family member (called a Health Care
Surrogate) to carry out your wishes later should
the circumstances require it.
An Advance Directive can be prepared without an
attorney, but must be witnessed by two adults.
If you change your mind later about what
treatment you want or don't want, or who your
Health Care Surrogate should be you can tear up
the document or fill out at new form with the
new date.
All programs and services are FREE of charge!
For assistance
completing an Advance Directive or for more
information, contact the MHAOW at (850) 244-1040
(Okaloosa County)
In Crisis - Go to
Nearest Hospital ER I Suicide Life Line 1-800-784-2433
I
Abuse/Neglect of Children or Vulnerable Adults 1-800-962-2873
I
Veteran Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255 press 1
