Compassionate Advocacy Against Psychiatric Facility Abuse And Neglect
Psychiatric facility mistreatment can pose devastating consequences for vulnerable individuals with mental conditions receiving care and treatment. Unfortunately, abuse and neglect are not uncommon, leading to significant physical, emotional and psychological harm. The California Department of Public Health plays a crucial role in monitoring facilities for compliance, but abuse still occurs.
NAPNAME can help. With offices in San Diego and San Francisco, our lawyers can aid in your quest for justice after a loved one suffers harm in a California psychiatric facility. You need not pay a fee if we cannot help you hold the responsible parties accountable. We also provide free consultations to discuss your case with no financial commitment.
Understanding Psychiatric Facility Abuse And Neglect
Abuse and neglect in psychiatric facilities often go unnoticed, especially when the victims are unable to advocate for themselves. California law recognizes the vulnerability of individuals with mental disabilities and offers legal protections. Under the Welfare and Institutions Code – WIC § 15610.07, “dependent adult abuse” encompasses physical, emotional and financial exploitation, as well as neglect by caregivers.
Abuse takes many forms including violence, sexual assault, emotional manipulation and deprivation of basic needs. Neglect, such as failure to supervise patients, inadequate medical care, unsanitary conditions and lack of attention to the patient’s emotional and psychological well-being, is equally harmful.
Signs Of Abuse And Neglect
Recognizing the signs of abuse and neglect in psychiatric facilities is critical to protecting your loved ones. Some common indicators include:
- Unexplained injuries: Bruises, cuts, fractures or burns with no plausible explanation.
- Emotional distress: Sudden changes in behavior, increased anxiety, depression or withdrawal.
- Overmedication: Excessive use of sedatives or antipsychotics to subdue or control behavior.
- Poor hygiene: Dirty clothes, unwashed hair or a generally unkempt appearance.
- Weight loss or dehydration: Signs of malnourishment or lack of access to food and water.
- Isolation: Preventing patients from interacting with family or friends.
If you suspect that a loved one is suffering from abuse or neglect in a psychiatric facility, take immediate steps to protect them.
Help For Psychiatric Facility Abuse And Neglect
Our attorneys work tirelessly to protect the rights of dependent adults in San Francisco and we can help you hold those who harmed your loved one accountable. Contact us online or call us at 415-900-1566 for a free case evaluation – no fees if you don’t win.