As a psychiatric RN, it seems the information regarding involuntary commitment is mostly correct. I did cringe, however, when I read this statement: "he'll order local law enforcement to haul the alleged loon to a mental ward."

Using the word loon to describe a fellow human being who suffers from a debilitating disease of the brain is cruel and enhances stigma.

It is my hope that the writer of these words may never have to experience the pain and suffering of those who have a mental illness.

Respect and compassion are infinitely more helpful than name calling.

Austin RN

Although I agree name calling is unhelpful, I am appalled by how many people who believe "respect and compassion" equates to allowing mentally ill people to wander the streets. If someone cannot control their actions so as to avoid harm to others, they should remain institutionalized.

Given the harm that many mentally ill people have caused, I understand why people use terms like "loon" and "crazy." Compassion for the mentally ill is great, as long as they are kept from causing harm to others. Allowing such people to wander free where they can hurt others is simply shifting the consquences of your compassion to those who might be - and are - harmed. The freedom of one mentally ill person does not have greater value than the life of another individual.

jascob: Absolutely, a person who poses an imminent danger to themselves or others should remain hospitalized. No question there. But don't call us disparaging names. Our plates are too full as it is.

I agree that those who are causing danger to others or themselves need help. However, to say that you understand why people use the term "loon" is ignorant. Not everyone who is mentally ill wonders the streets. My mother, a schizophrenic, was married with a baby, was an artist, a straight A student in college, etc. and this afflicted her. WISEN UP AND DO SOME RESEARCH.