Mental Health Act
Mental Health Act
The Mental Health Act (pronunciation: /ˈmɛntəl hɛlθ ækt/) is a piece of legislation that provides the legal framework for the treatment and care of individuals with mental health issues.
Etymology
The term "Mental Health Act" is derived from the English words "mental" (pertaining to the mind), "health" (a state of well-being), and "act" (a formal decision by a parliament or a congress).
Definition
The Mental Health Act is a law that allows for the compulsory admission and treatment of people who are suffering from mental disorders in a hospital, without their consent, if they are deemed a risk to themselves or others. It also provides safeguards and rights for patients, and it sets out the roles and responsibilities of mental health professionals.
Related Terms
- Mental Health: A person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being.
- Mental Disorders: Health conditions characterized by alterations in thinking, mood, or behavior associated with distress or impaired functioning.
- Mental Health Professionals: Trained professionals who provide care and treatment for individuals with mental health issues. This includes psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers.
- Involuntary Commitment: A legal process through which an individual with symptoms of severe mental illness is court-ordered into treatment in a hospital (inpatient) or in the community (outpatient).
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mental Health Act
- Wikipedia's article - Mental Health Act
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