An advance directive in mental health care is a legal document that outlines an individual's preferences and instructions for their treatment in case they become incapacitated or unable to make their own decisions due to a mental illness. This document is designed to ensure that the person's wishes are respected and followed in situations where they cannot communicate their decisions themselves. The advance directive may include information about specific medications or treatments that the individual does or does not want to receive. It can also include details about where the person would like to receive care and who they would like to make decisions on their behalf, such as a family member or trusted friend. They are an important way for individuals to assert their autonomy and ensure that their rights are respected, even in situations where they may be unable to speak up for themselves. It is important to note that advance directives in mental health care are not the same as living wills or other types of advance directives that are used in medical care more generally. Mental health advance directives are specific to mental health care and address issues such as involuntary commitment, forced medication, and other aspects of mental health treatment that may not be covered by a traditional advance directive.