Where do we draw the line?

I’m assuming. That many people are mentally ill. But aren’t diagnosed as such. Or more likely, they are judged to have a right to be mentally ill. Just as one can refuse treatment. For all sorts of maladies. Whether physical or mental.  That’s why an alcoholic, for instance, can stay drunk most of his/her life. We are inherently free. To destroy ourselves. Unfortunately, in the process, the mentally ill also end up disrupting, if not destroying, the lives of others.  Friends, loved ones, acquaintances. Even strangers. Granted. Sometimes inadvertently. Anyway, I’m of a healthy and refreshing mind. That it’s not only wise to intervene. But morally responsible. For us. As individuals. And as a society. To step in. To see that the mentally ill. Including drunks. Such as friend Julie. Get the kind of help. And care.  That make them less mentally ill. Yes, folks, please tell me.  Where do we draw the line? --Jim Broede