Lorraine,
Sometimes it is in a patient’s best interest to change their status from “voluntary ” to “involuntary”when they need to remain in long term care. Under The Mental Treatment Act (In Ireland) this change in status can only be “recommended”. The Mental Health Commission was set up to ensure people who are detained under The Act and are in long term care will be assessed at regular intervals to review their status on an ongoing basis. Relatives are invited to attend these Tribunals as are “patients” , if they are capable.
Don’t panic yet Lorraine. Your husband’s condition was NOT caused by your gambling. Neither will gambling reverse his position. Attend the meeting . Listen to what is planned. Its all simply explained in the Mental Health Handbooks.
I’m sure most of these Laws and Acts pertain to healthcare, worldwide.
Do not blame yourself for what has happened. People who never gambled have spouses and family members in long term care. Legal protocols and conditions apply in all cases.
Keep yourself informed of every move and read the Recommendations before agreeing to anything.
At Mental Health Tribunals, Orders are sometimes revoked.
Keep a clear head by not gambling!
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS!
