What is Grave Disability?

Grave disability is a condition in which a person, as a result of a mental disorder, is unable to provide for his or her basic needs. A determination of grave disability, although necessarily including a consideration of past events, must be based upon the individual’s current condition.  A person is not gravely disabled if they can survive without involuntary detention with the help of responsible family, or others who are willing and able help provide for the person’s basic needs of food, clothing and shelter. 

A person also may not be considered gravely disabled based upon their status as "homeless: if he/she knows how to access and obtain food, clothing and shelter that meet his/her needs through community agencies. 

In addition, the refusal to consent to psychotropic medications does not in itself constitute grounds for grave disability or initiating involuntary commitment.

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1. Can My Rights Be Taken Away?
2. What is Danger to Self or Others?
3. What is Grave Disability?