Family member w/ Schizophrenia

How do we get family member to get medical help when he will not even communicate with anyone. He has moved back home with his mother, under the conditions that he WOULD GET HELP. It's been months and nothing. Do we actually have to wait until he does something illegal. It is tearing down my mother !! Any suggestions/help would be greatly appreciated.

[HFHS MD-JM]

PB,

  It sounds like you are concerned about your family member who may have schizophrenia.  If a person is demonstrating behavior that is harmful to himself or others, then you can petition the courts to have him evaluated by a psychiatrist against their will.
  Unfortunately it is not uncommon that people with mental illness refuse treatment which is their right as long as they are competent.  Please continue to be supportive and encourage your family member to seek treatment on teir own.  If there is danger present then petition them for evaluation/treatment.  It would also be helpful to set limits:  That to live in the household they must have psychiatric care.
  Keep in mind that this information is intended for general educational purposes only.

Sincerely,

HFHS MD-JM

Keywords: Schizophrenia, non-compliance