Response: "Patients' rights frustrate families" - Globe & Mail
March 12, 2009
BY EMAIL
The Editor
Globe and Mail
Dear Editor:
How could Andre Picard contribute to the mythology around mental health law? I have practiced mental health law for 14 years in
Twice in one week, in two different hospitals, I saw nurses deliver a needle accompanied by security guards in uniform. This is routine. One client almost died as a result of the medication he was forced to take. Others developed diabetes or were medicated so that they could not function. In spite of these risks, many clients chose to take treatment.
If we want people to engage in treatment, let’s respect the liberty of people with mental health problems and change the way that we deliver care. Let’s start with finding a better way to treat, rather than look for a better way to force it on people.
Yours very truly,
Suzan E. Fraser
.