How to handle a person with mental illness who needs to be hospitalized but refuses to go but we know he needs help?

This is a very difficult question that I have often helped clients address.  If the person becomes a danger to themselves or others, a temporary commitment to a psychiatric facility may address the problem.  If not, then you need to consider permanent guardianship, which would allow you to make medical decisions, housing decisions, and financial decision for the person.  It is an emotional issue, and not easy for you to do, but something that the courts often address.  If you want to call my office on Monday, I can help you with this.