In recent years, several states have made changes to their policies to make involuntary commitment easier for individuals with severe mental illnesses. However, the issue of forced treatment continues to raise civil rights questions, with some arguing that it can do more harm than good for patients. Today’s episode of On Point will delve into the ethical dilemma surrounding involuntary mental health treatment.

Our guests for this discussion include Will James, host of KUOW and The Seattle Times’ “Lost Patients” podcast, and Dominic Sisti, associate professor of medical ethics and health policy at the University of Pennsylvania and Director of the Scattergood Program for the Applied Ethics of Behavioral Health Care. Additionally, we will hear from Laura Craciun, a mother whose son struggles with bipolar I disorder with psychotic features and anosognosia, and Stefanie Lyn Kaufman-Mthimkhulu, founder and executive director of Project LETS.

Tune in to this program on April 17, 2024, as we explore the complex issues surrounding involuntary mental health treatment. Audio of the episode will be available after the broadcast for those who are unable to listen live.