Mental Health Quick Links
Crisis Service
Other Useful Mental Health Links
- Oregon Department of Human Services
- Oregon Addictions and Mental Health Services
- National Alliance for the Mentally Ill
- Oregon Advocacy Center
- Mental HealthU
- How Right Now
Suicide Prevention Links
Linn County New Solutions Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the involuntary commitment process apply to all mentally or emotionally disturbed persons?
No.
This process applies only to those persons who, because of a mental disorder, are alleged to be dangerous to themselves or others or are unable to provide for their basic personal needs and are not receiving the care that is necessary for their safety or survival. Such persons are often unwilling or unable to seek the help they need on their own.
Is it possible for such persons to get help without going through the involuntary commitment process?
Yes.
Any person may seek help voluntarily at a community mental health program, a local hospital, or through private care.
What rights are guaranteed to persons on involuntary commitment?
Persons involuntarily committed for treatment have the right to:
- communicate freely by phone and in person
- keep and use personal possessions and clothing
- religious freedom
Committed persons cannot be required to perform routine labor tasks, except those essential to their treatment and they are entitled to reasonable compensation for all work performed, other than personal housekeeping duties. They are permitted to exercise all civil rights unless limited by court order for special reasons. They are protected from unusual or hazardous treatment without their consent, unless there are overriding clinical reasons for such treatment.
A complete statement of these rights is posted in all facilities treating committed persons and is given to each person at the time of admission to a treatment facility.
How long will a person be confined for an involuntary commitment?
The commitment is to the State Mental Health Division for a period of up to 180 days of treatment.
When the mentally ill person is stable or no longer actively psychotic or does not pose an imminent threat to self or others, the person may be discharged from the hospital and receive treatment in another facility or in the community. The principle that applies is that treatment is to occur in the least restrictive setting possible. Involuntary hospitalization very often lasts for only a few days before the person is ready to continue treatment in a less restrictive environment.
