Schizophrenia, civil liberties, and the law

During the past 10 years, extensive studies have shown that schizophrenia is a true biological illness. Like diabetes and hypertension, it cannot be cured as yet, but it often can be controlled by medication. Schizophrenia, therefore, is not a hopeless condition, and many sufferers who receive proper treatment can lead productive lives. The stigma attached to schizophrenia will disappear, and the resistance to the proper use of drugs will also cease when a change comes about in the way schizophrenia is perceived in the United States. Meanwhile, the unique tragedy of schizophrenia lies in the fact that victims often cannot recognize their illness, refuse treatment, and throw away their lives. The question becomes: Is court-mandated treatment indicated when persons are severely disabled, lack the capacity to make informed decisions, and will suffer mental and physical deterioration if treatment is not given?