[zdragnar]

> a choice

It's a nice thought, and should probably be an option, but it won't be sufficient on its own, I don't think.

Would it surprise you to learn that many with severe mental illnesses do not voluntarily undergo treatment? A friend worked in a job training and support program, first with chronically homeless, and then with mentally disabled specifically. The single biggest obstacle most faced was their own unwillingness to accept or stick with treatment.

The homeless in particular that this friend worked with were untrusting of any program that might potentially hinder their autonomy- so they would show up for the free bus cards, food and job training, but any hint of medical support and they would disappear for fear of being taken off the street and locked up.

Most, given the choice between jail or treatment, would choose jail, simply because there was a defined time period that they would get their freedom back, plus no pills.