How can a person with mental illness be forced to take treatment but not a patient who has an organic brain injury?

No one can be forced into treatment. Anyone proved to be a danger to them self or others can be placed on a 48 - 72 hour hold

• where they are offered treatment and are able to refuse. Once

deemed past the danger point they may be free to leave, depending on the stipulations of the hold.

Very occasionally the courts (along with appropriate medical advisors) will order someone to be held until they are well enough to function in society. This is rarely granted due to our Civil Rights.