Minds on the Edge

Olivia's Story

Taking Olivia to the Emergency Room

What would you say or do if you were Olivia's parent? If you were Olivia, what would you hope your parents would say or do?

Poll 2

Poll 1

If your daughter in college seemed to be having a delusional episode, would you

B. Tell her anything to get her to the ER.

C. Call the police.

D. Look for a peer counseling service.

In the ER with your son or daughter would you lie if you felt it was the only way to get the “right” result?

A. Yes

B. No

Are you concerned about how to help someone with mental illness? Are you concerned about your own mental health?

NAMI, that National Alliance for Mental Illness and Mental Health America have active local chapters and community-based programs across the country and extensive information online that can help you to learn more and connection with others.

Susan Stefan is the author of Emergency Department Treatment of the Psychiatric Patient: Policy Issues and Legal Requirements

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25% of cases of mental illness develop between the ages of 14
and 24.

Colleen Jokinen describes her experience in an emergency room.

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