What are our options

[starr14]

HI....my name is starr and i live in the SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS, Northern California. My sister is a severe alcholic, and has suffered from atleast 2 seziures believed to be related to her drinking! She is now 31 years old living with my father who has been in recovery for over 20 years. Now I believe that she is now menatlly ill and have even recorded her with my cam corder when she was highly intoxicated. There is no way that she will get help on her own, for one, she is unable to make decisions for herself anymore and is in denial of her problem. I told my dad to give her the option of rehab and if she denied that then she could no longer live in his home. So of course, she refused rehab and decided to live in her car???? I am curious to what legal rights familes have over victims of abuse? How can we get her committed???? She is dying before our eyes!!!

[GoingToMakeIt]

I am not sure of this. AA & Al-Anon might be a good place to start looking.

I would also post this question on the alcoholism forum, too.
http://www.medhelp.org/forums/show/158

[desperate1111]

My sister was also a severe alcoholic. She has some sort of disease, alcohol neuropathy. She has no feeling in her feet and hands. But of course she had to get deathly ill before she got any help. I do know in WV there is a place you can call and get a "mental hygene" warrant against someone.
Your sister is fortunate to have you, I'm sure she doesn't realize it tho. Its so hard to help someone who won't help themself. Good luck to you.

[mimi1313]

Hi Starr,

I don't know about the laws in California but its very difficult to get someone get committed. She sounds mentally ill but that's not something they commit you for. She has to decide to quit and she doesn't seem to want to.

I'm sorry, I'm sure you can try but its unlikely anyone will commit her.

Melissa