This post was written by Mary Whybrew, case worker II, CCBHC/Advance Care Planning MSW Intern, Indiana University School of Social Work.
When I tell people I work at Park Center with those in crisis and that I love to have conversations about death and dying, the look on their faces are often confused and concerned. Let me explain.
Advance Care Planning is identifying the person you want to make decisions for you when you’re unable to do so for yourself. This includes your healthcare wishes that follow your values and preferences for end of life. Many of my friends assume that they don’t need to have advance directives until they are older or near death. I used to believe this myth too.
Working at Park Center, I interact with individuals seeking mental health help. Oftentimes, they are in crisis, unable to communicate their needs, or severely depressed and suicidal. Why on earth would I talk to someone about the end of life when they are trying to take theirs? Yes, I want to get them the intervention and support they need. But getting them that help includes asking them if they’ve thought about who they want to make their healthcare decisions when they can’t. Why? Because they need to know someone cares. They need to know someone knows their values and wishes and will honor them, no matter the circumstances.
When patients are discharged from Parkview Behavioral Health Institute inpatient services, they are assessed at Park Center to connect them to ongoing services. During this assessment, we ask if they have an advance directive. When I explain what an advance directive is, they think about the person they trust to make medical decisions on their behalf. This reminds them that they have someone who cares. Someone who knows them enough to respect their wishes, values and beliefs. Advance Care Planning after an inpatient stay for all ages is a reminder that no one is alone.
We all need to know someone cares about us. Having an Advance Care Planning conversation gives your family a gift, and reminds you of the importance of connection.
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