Mental Health Act 1983

Question 1

Features of this Act

Answer 1

This Act deals with both the care and control of people suffering from mental illness.

Defines different type of mental illness: 
Schizophrenia 
Anorexia Neruosa 
Major depression 
Bipolar disorder 
Learning disability 
Personality disorders 

Patients can be sectioned against their will for assessment if they pose a danger to themselves or others.

Question 2

More..

Answer 2

But this requires two medical practitioners signatures

If the pose an immediate threat they can be held for 72 hours.

Patients can be treated without consent if a medically practitioner thinks it is appropriate. This acts clearly states the circumstance in which this can be done.

Patient have to be given information orally and in writing as soon as possible about their situation and treatment.

Question 3

Benefits/strengths of mental health act.

Answer 3

This Act provides a legal framework for practitioners to follow.

It prevents people from harming themselves or others.

It protect those who have lost the ability to make decisions for themselves.

People are given rights/a voice

Treatment cannot be forced upon an individual unless their illness is severe and another specialist agrees.

Question 4

Weaknesses of mental health act.

Answer 4

There is still a stigma attached to being sectioned which can have long term consequences.

There is no provision for less severe mental illness e.g anxiety or depression

The Act overrides the individuals human rights(& legal rights).