Understanding the Georgia Psychiatric Advance Directive: Your Voice in Mental Health Care

Imagine a scenario where you’re unable to make decisions about your mental healthcare, perhaps due to a sudden mental health crisis. Who would speak for you? What treatments would you want or not want? That’s where the Georgia Psychiatric Advance Directive (PAD) comes into play. It’s like having a roadmap for your mental health treatment when you can’t navigate it yourself.

What is a PAD?

Simply put, a PAD is a legal document that lets you plan your mental healthcare in advance. It’s your way of ensuring that your wishes are respected when you can’t express them. This documents should be completed in addition to the Georgia Advance Directive for Healthcare (not in place of it).

Why Should You Consider a PAD?

1. Control Over Treatment: With a PAD, you get to specify the types of treatment you want or don’t want. You can outline your preferences regarding medication, therapy, or hospitalization.
2. Appointing a Mental Health Care Agent: You can designate someone you trust as your health care agent. This person will make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to. It could be a family member or friend who knows your values and wishes.
3. Avoiding Unwanted Treatments: If you’re opposed to certain behavioral health treatments or medications, a PAD ensures your choices are respected, even if you can’t communicate them.

How to Create a PAD?

1. Download a Form: Georgia provides a free PAD form. You can download it from Hurley Elder Care Law’s website.
2. Fill It Out: The form will guide you through the process. Be clear about your preferences and be sure to carefully choose a mental health care agent.
3. Witness: You’ll need two witnesses (unrelated to you).
4. Share Copies: Give copies of your PAD to your health care agent, health care providers, and family members.

New for 2024…we just added a Georgia Psychiatric Advance Directive webinar-on-demand to our website. This short video further explains the ins and outs of the PAD and may help you decide if it may be right for you or a loved one. Download it today.

Call the Hurley Elder Care Law office at 404-843-0121 for questions about the PAD and other elder law services. We are happy to offer complimentary phone consultations with our intake specialist.