gravely disabled
Legal criterion for involuntary psychiatric hold when a person cannot provide for basic needs due to mental illness.
Full Definition
A legal standard used in many jurisdictions to justify involuntary psychiatric commitment when an individual, due to mental illness, is unable to provide for basic personal needs such as food, clothing, or shelter. This determination requires clinical assessment demonstrating that the person's mental condition prevents them from caring for themselves, creating substantial risk of serious physical harm. The assessment must consider the person's recent behavior, living situation, and ability to make rational decisions about essential needs.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound adjective; specific legal definition varies by jurisdiction.
In Context
- "The court found the patient gravely disabled and authorized continued treatment." — legal documentation
- "Assessment criteria for gravely disabled include inability to obtain food, shelter, or clothing." — clinical manual