Mental Health Legal Centre Inc.
Advance Directives For mental health
An advance directive is a document prepared by a consumer to be read and used in case of a mental health crisis. Typically advance directives contain special information outlining a person's unique circumstance, personal preferences regarding treatment choices and information about practical life management arrangements. An advance directive outlines the steps that must be taken to provide optimal support and care for a person with a mental illness during a time of crisis in order to limit or prevent the damage from that crisis. Advance directives are not legally enforceable in Victoria; however they can make a significant contribution to the wellbeing of people living with psychiatric disability.
The Mental Health Legal Centre is a strong supporter of the use of Advance Directives in Mental Health, the following links will take you to the relevant sections of our website:
Why Write an Advance Directive? including a call for consumers willing to discuss the concept
Advance Directive Form (pdf) that can be filled out by hand or on computer
MHLC's Research on Advance Directives for Mental Health - Clinicians' Consultation
