After SC man’s death, bill would give parents more control over their children’s mental health care

By: Skylar Laird

Outlets: South Carolina Daily Gazette

Published: March 2, 2026

Words: 816

Last Updated: 1 week, 2 days ago

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COLUMBIA — Tessa Spencer knew her son, Julian Fite, was struggling with his mental health. He’d attempted suicide in the past, and she could see signs that it might happen again.

When she brought him to the hospital to get help, though, the 20-year-old did not consent to treatment, so doctors sent him home. The Charleston mother begged for help, but the answer remained the same: Unless Fite agreed, doctors could do nothing.

“I was …

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