How do I know if a person is mentally ill?

First, watch the person's behavior carefully. If the behavior only occurs when the person has been taking drugs or using alcohol, the problem could be substance abuse, not mental illness.

However, if the behavior is continuous, and if the person threatens or actually harms him/herself or others, or whose judgment is so impaired that they do not understand their need for treatment, you may contact the Probate Court where the person resides or is found.

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1. What is involuntary commitment?
2. How do I know if a person is mentally ill?
3. Who should I call?
4. What will the Court need to know?
5. What if the person needs further evaluation?
6. What happens next?
7. Where will the person be taken?
8. What happens at the hospital?
9. What if the hospital determines that the person does not require hospitalization?
10. And if the person is diagnosed as requiring treatment?
11. How long will the person be kept in the treatment facility?
12. Could it be longer?