How to Cope With Being Held Through a Baker Act

The Baker Act is a law in Florida that allows a person to be held involuntary in a crisis unit for 72 hours. You can only do this to a person when he is a danger to himself or others due to mental illness or drug abuse. Dealing with being Baker Acted is not an easy task and you may be very confused.

Instructions

1. Realize that this is being done for your own well-being. Your family does not want you to injure yourself and has made the tough decision to Baker Act you. Understand that this decision did not come easily and they probably feel horrible about it.

2. Try to relax. The crisis unit can hold you involuntarily for up to 72 hours, so you only have to be there for 3 days at the most. Panicking will only make you more agitated.

3. Tell the truth when asked. You will have to undergo a psychiatric evaluation while you are there and the best thing you can do is be honest with the therapist. If they deem that you don't need to be there, they must release you. They are trained to detect lying so don't try to lie to get out of it.

4. Talk to your family and friends. They can help you figure things out. Many people have to hit rock bottom before they get help, and experiencing the Baker Act can be that bottom for you. If you show that you're making strides to get treatment, the doctors may choose to release you early.

5. Help yourself when they release you. Go about your normal life and continue going to work and socializing. Seeking treatment in the form of talk therapy or medication can be very beneficial. If you became a danger to yourself while using drugs, consider going through a detox program and using a support system such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't hold a grudge against the person employed the Baker Act. He did it out of love and genuinely cares about your safety.