Trending...
- Tacoma: Applicants Sought for the Board of Ethics
- Share your workplace safety solutions at 2027 Applied Ergonomics Conference
- Qscription Technologies and NEOPATHOLOGY CORP. Sign MOU to Bring FDA-Cleared Lung Imaging AI into U.S. Clinical Practice
Mental health industry watchdog, CCHR, calls for increased legal action to protect vulnerable youth from abuses in psychiatric facilities.
LOS ANGELES - Washingtoner -- Citizens Commission on Human Rights International, a mental health industry watchdog, welcomes the increasing numbers of attorneys representing survivors of the troubled teen treatment system, seeking justice for the abuse many have suffered in behavioral hospitals. On August 27, three Alabama law firms filed a lawsuit against a for-profit behavioral hospital for youths, detailing the severe physical and emotional abuse inflicted on a 17-year-old boy, identified as "M.C.," while he was a resident there in 2023.[1]
"What M.C. endured is a betrayal of trust, and we are committed to seeking justice on his behalf," attorney Tommy James said, adding, "No child should endure what this child and others have faced at this facility. The conditions and treatment are horrendous, and those responsible must be held accountable. It is heartbreaking and enraging to see children subjected to such inhumane treatment."
A recent U.S. Senate Finance Committee report "Warehouses of Neglect: How Taxpayers Are Funding Systemic Abuse in Youth Residential Treatment Facilities" (RTFs) noted: "Children, entrusted to the care of behavioral health providers, are routinely subjected to the risk of abuse…." Further, children at RTFs suffer "sexual, physical, verbal, or emotional abuse at the hands of staff. Mistreatment is endemic to the conditions at RTFs."[2]
As testimony to this, since the report's release, a behavioral health associate at an Arkansas facility was arrested and charged with sexual indecency with a child patient. A lawsuit was filed against an Illinois RTF alleging that a staff member repeatedly sexually assaulted a 24-year-old patient. Moreover, one major behavioral hospital chain is paying a $400 million settlement in New Mexico related to children placed in a foster care setting where they were repeatedly sexually abused.[3]
CCHR says the abuses may be far greater. While the Senate report does not specify how many adolescents are subjected to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), it's known that several of the investigated hospital chains deliver it. For instance, at least three psychiatric hospitals downplay the risks of ECT while promoting unproven and potentially deceptive theories. As of 2018, one such facility in Florida conducted 900-1,000 ECT treatments annually and claims that the 460 volts of electricity delivered through the body is safe.
More on Washingtoner
Such claims of "safety" are particularly concerning when considering the financial incentives tied to ECT. The adverse effects of ECT can prolong the length of a hospital stay; thus, its delivery can increase profits.[4] The Senate report addresses how "At its core, the RTF model typically optimizes profit over the wellbeing and safety of children. The rampant civil rights violations that children experience in RTFs are a direct consequence of the industry's model."
ECT continues to be administered despite the World Health Organization (WHO) recommending it be banned for use in children and be considered torture if given without consent. A Tennessee RTF misleadingly claims on its website that ECT induces a "minor seizure that can help the brain reset itself…." and "modifies the neural circuitry and chemistry of the brain." However, no clinical trials exist to substantiate these claims.
Furthermore, the site falsely claims that ECT does not erase memories and blames any "brief memory impairment" on the anesthesia used to administer ECT, which "often returns over time." However, experts clearly link the memory loss to the electroshock.
John Read, Ph.D., who has researched the impact of ECT in many studies, points out that in 2023, the WHO and United Nations said, "ECT is not recommended for children, and this should be prohibited through legislation." Yet, he adds, "ECT is still being used on children and adolescents" and it is "probable that developing brains are particularly susceptible to the memory loss caused by ECT." Among ECT's many adverse effects, he wrote, "is the long-term memory loss found in between 12 and 55 percent of patients. The American Psychiatric Association admits that 'ECT can result in persistent or permanent memory loss.'"[5]
In a recent landmark decision, the California Supreme Court says there are serious risks from ECT like memory loss and brain damage. The court's decision emphasized that patients have the right to be fully informed about the risks of their treatments, and ECT device manufacturers can be held accountable for failing to disclose these risks.[6]
The troubling association between ECT and brain damage is further compounded by dozens of lawsuits that have been filed across the United States by survivors harmed by electroshock devices. ECT and brain damage have been inextricably linked since their inception, according to one Los Angeles law firm.[7]
More on Washingtoner
CCHR says more lawsuits are needed to help protect troubled youths from not only sexual and physical abuse in RTFS and youth "wilderness camps," but also the prescribed treatments they are given.
CCHR is calling for urgent and comprehensive action to protect vulnerable youth from pervasive abuses within psychiatric facilities. It urges increased legal scrutiny and accountability for institutions that administer harmful treatments, such as ECT and psychotropic drugs.
For those affected, CCHR offers a reporting form on its website where patients can confidentially REPORT ABUSE.
About CCHR: Established in 1969 by the Church of Scientology and eminent professor of psychiatry, Dr. Thomas Szasz, CCHR has helped achieve hundreds of laws that empower patients with informed consent rights and ban damaging treatments.
Sources:
[1] "Alabama youth home staff instigated fights, gambled with residents as teen was brutalized, lawsuit claims," AOL.com, 27 Aug 2024, www.al.com/news/2024/08/alabama-youth-home-staff-instigated-fights-gambled-with-residents-as-teen-was-brutalized-lawsuit-claims.html
[2] Senate Finance Committee Staff Report, "Warehouses of Neglect: How Taxpayers Are Funding Systemic Abuse in Youth Residential Treatment Facilities," 12 June 2024, p. 11
[3] "Dem Candidate Lobbies For Healthcare Company Found to 'Put Profits Ahead of Children's Safety'" Nevada Globe, 12 Aug 2024
[4] Draper B, Luscombe G. Quantification of factors contributing to length of stay in an acute psychogeriatric ward. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry 1998; 13:1–7
[5] John Read, Ph.D., "Is It Time to Ban Electroconvulsive Therapy for Children?" Psychology Today, 17 Nov. 2023, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/psychiatry-through-the-looking-glass/202311/is-it-time-to-ban-electroconvulsive-therapy-for
[6] "Wisner Baum Prevails in Landmark Win for Patient Autonomy in CA Supreme Court Ruling," Wisner Baum, 20 June 2024, www.wisnerbaum.com/blog/2024/june/wisner-baum-prevails-in-landmark-win-for-patient/
[7] www.wisnerbaum.com/defective-medical-device-injuries/ect/
"What M.C. endured is a betrayal of trust, and we are committed to seeking justice on his behalf," attorney Tommy James said, adding, "No child should endure what this child and others have faced at this facility. The conditions and treatment are horrendous, and those responsible must be held accountable. It is heartbreaking and enraging to see children subjected to such inhumane treatment."
A recent U.S. Senate Finance Committee report "Warehouses of Neglect: How Taxpayers Are Funding Systemic Abuse in Youth Residential Treatment Facilities" (RTFs) noted: "Children, entrusted to the care of behavioral health providers, are routinely subjected to the risk of abuse…." Further, children at RTFs suffer "sexual, physical, verbal, or emotional abuse at the hands of staff. Mistreatment is endemic to the conditions at RTFs."[2]
As testimony to this, since the report's release, a behavioral health associate at an Arkansas facility was arrested and charged with sexual indecency with a child patient. A lawsuit was filed against an Illinois RTF alleging that a staff member repeatedly sexually assaulted a 24-year-old patient. Moreover, one major behavioral hospital chain is paying a $400 million settlement in New Mexico related to children placed in a foster care setting where they were repeatedly sexually abused.[3]
CCHR says the abuses may be far greater. While the Senate report does not specify how many adolescents are subjected to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), it's known that several of the investigated hospital chains deliver it. For instance, at least three psychiatric hospitals downplay the risks of ECT while promoting unproven and potentially deceptive theories. As of 2018, one such facility in Florida conducted 900-1,000 ECT treatments annually and claims that the 460 volts of electricity delivered through the body is safe.
More on Washingtoner
- City of Tacoma Aligns Parking Rates and Facilities for Downtown Parking Network Effective October 13
- Bettingbladet releases H1 2026 report on the Swedish online gambling market
- Garage door installation or repair in Minnesota? Which makes more sense for your family?
- Tacoma: Application for 2027 Community Arts Projects Funding Now Available
- Haven Treatment Center Now In-Network Partnership with ComPsych, Expanding Access to Youth Health
Such claims of "safety" are particularly concerning when considering the financial incentives tied to ECT. The adverse effects of ECT can prolong the length of a hospital stay; thus, its delivery can increase profits.[4] The Senate report addresses how "At its core, the RTF model typically optimizes profit over the wellbeing and safety of children. The rampant civil rights violations that children experience in RTFs are a direct consequence of the industry's model."
ECT continues to be administered despite the World Health Organization (WHO) recommending it be banned for use in children and be considered torture if given without consent. A Tennessee RTF misleadingly claims on its website that ECT induces a "minor seizure that can help the brain reset itself…." and "modifies the neural circuitry and chemistry of the brain." However, no clinical trials exist to substantiate these claims.
Furthermore, the site falsely claims that ECT does not erase memories and blames any "brief memory impairment" on the anesthesia used to administer ECT, which "often returns over time." However, experts clearly link the memory loss to the electroshock.
John Read, Ph.D., who has researched the impact of ECT in many studies, points out that in 2023, the WHO and United Nations said, "ECT is not recommended for children, and this should be prohibited through legislation." Yet, he adds, "ECT is still being used on children and adolescents" and it is "probable that developing brains are particularly susceptible to the memory loss caused by ECT." Among ECT's many adverse effects, he wrote, "is the long-term memory loss found in between 12 and 55 percent of patients. The American Psychiatric Association admits that 'ECT can result in persistent or permanent memory loss.'"[5]
In a recent landmark decision, the California Supreme Court says there are serious risks from ECT like memory loss and brain damage. The court's decision emphasized that patients have the right to be fully informed about the risks of their treatments, and ECT device manufacturers can be held accountable for failing to disclose these risks.[6]
The troubling association between ECT and brain damage is further compounded by dozens of lawsuits that have been filed across the United States by survivors harmed by electroshock devices. ECT and brain damage have been inextricably linked since their inception, according to one Los Angeles law firm.[7]
More on Washingtoner
- Tacoma: OMWBE Certification 201 Workshop on September 28
- Super Rooter Expands to 190 Plumbing, Sewer, and Drain Service Locations Across the United States
- European Patent for ALS Program Expands the Story: HOPE Deploys Robotic TMS & FDA Commercialization Path Advances: NRx Pharmaceuticals: NAS DAQ: NRXP
- VICTURY Sports Announces Formation of Youth Sports League Built on the Official, Patented, and Award-Winning Keepy Uppy® Ball
- Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) Presents ReadyCommunities Partnership 2026 National Service Award to Local Businessman / US Air Force Veteran
CCHR says more lawsuits are needed to help protect troubled youths from not only sexual and physical abuse in RTFS and youth "wilderness camps," but also the prescribed treatments they are given.
CCHR is calling for urgent and comprehensive action to protect vulnerable youth from pervasive abuses within psychiatric facilities. It urges increased legal scrutiny and accountability for institutions that administer harmful treatments, such as ECT and psychotropic drugs.
For those affected, CCHR offers a reporting form on its website where patients can confidentially REPORT ABUSE.
About CCHR: Established in 1969 by the Church of Scientology and eminent professor of psychiatry, Dr. Thomas Szasz, CCHR has helped achieve hundreds of laws that empower patients with informed consent rights and ban damaging treatments.
Sources:
[1] "Alabama youth home staff instigated fights, gambled with residents as teen was brutalized, lawsuit claims," AOL.com, 27 Aug 2024, www.al.com/news/2024/08/alabama-youth-home-staff-instigated-fights-gambled-with-residents-as-teen-was-brutalized-lawsuit-claims.html
[2] Senate Finance Committee Staff Report, "Warehouses of Neglect: How Taxpayers Are Funding Systemic Abuse in Youth Residential Treatment Facilities," 12 June 2024, p. 11
[3] "Dem Candidate Lobbies For Healthcare Company Found to 'Put Profits Ahead of Children's Safety'" Nevada Globe, 12 Aug 2024
[4] Draper B, Luscombe G. Quantification of factors contributing to length of stay in an acute psychogeriatric ward. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry 1998; 13:1–7
[5] John Read, Ph.D., "Is It Time to Ban Electroconvulsive Therapy for Children?" Psychology Today, 17 Nov. 2023, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/psychiatry-through-the-looking-glass/202311/is-it-time-to-ban-electroconvulsive-therapy-for
[6] "Wisner Baum Prevails in Landmark Win for Patient Autonomy in CA Supreme Court Ruling," Wisner Baum, 20 June 2024, www.wisnerbaum.com/blog/2024/june/wisner-baum-prevails-in-landmark-win-for-patient/
[7] www.wisnerbaum.com/defective-medical-device-injuries/ect/
Source: Citizens Commission on Human Rights
Filed Under: Health, Government
0 Comments
Latest on Washingtoner
- Spokane City Council Approves Emergency Tenant Protections
- HydroExcavation.com Relaunches With Exclusive Local Service Areas and Dedicated Hydrovac Manufacturer Directory
- Sky Quarry Enters a Powerful New Chapter: Refinery Restart Emminent, Nevada Oil Initiative and Visibility Put (NAS DAQ: SKYQ) in the Spotlight
- Intelligence Daily Features Veteran Hollywood Producer Kirk Shaw On AI And The Future Of Entertainment
- OneVizion Launches Vera AI, Bringing Connected Operational Context to Infrastructure Teams
- P-Wave Press Announces Pushing the Wave 2025 by L.A. Davenport
- DONGSHENG Titanium Recycling: Promoting a Closed-Loop Cycle for High-End Titanium Materials
- TBM Council Establishes TBM as The Business Operating System for AI
- Spokane: SFD's 8th Annual Kids Jr Firefighter Academy
- Tacoma Dome Unveils Salish Mural
- French Camp Academy Releases New Video Inviting Individuals to Consider a Life of Service
- Tacoma: Northbound I-705 Stadium Way Off-Ramp to Close at Noon Today for Emergency Repairs
- LET US READ Documentary on Dyslexia and Literacy to Screen at TCL Chinese 6 in Hollywood
- PeopleNTech LLC to Participate in CWS Summit North America 2026
- Defense & Space Strategy Strengthens as New Leadership Builds on NASA Results and Expanding Multi-Orbit Opportunities for Ascent Solar Technologies
- STS Capital Partners is pleased to announce the appointment of Barry Brown as Vice President, Business Development
- Qscription Technologies and NEOPATHOLOGY CORP. Sign MOU to Bring FDA-Cleared Lung Imaging AI into U.S. Clinical Practice
- Tidy-Up Tacoma Teams Up with Community Partners for Citywide Cleanup Event September 19
- Lynnwood Heating LLC Helps Homeowners Take Advantage of 2026 Heat Pump Installation Rebates
- Tacoma: Applicants Sought for the Board of Ethics