Psychiatric Advance Directives (PAD)

Psychiatric advance directives (PADs), also called mental health directives, are legal documents that share a person's specific directions about mental health treatment during a psychiatric emergency if the person cannot give consent for themselves. PADs can also include specific permission to talk with family members, caregivers, or friends during crisis situations.

State laws vary on PADs, but this website offers forms for Pennsylvania citizens.

After you complete any advance directives, share them with the health care providers involved in your treatment team, as well as concerned family and friends.

Resources

The National Resource Center on Psychiatric Advance Directives

Mental Health Association in Pennsylvania
1-866-578-3659 or 1-717-346-0549
info@mhapa.org

Pennsylvania Mental Health Consumers' Association
1-717-564-4930 or 1-800-887-6422

Pennsylvania Health Law Project
1-717-236-6310 or 1-800-274-3258