What are my rights regarding my treatment and care?

Information for the public

If you are concerned about not being able to make important decisions at any time (for instance during a period of psychosis) you can write some instructions for your healthcare team (called advance statements and advance decisions). The instructions can say what treatments and other help you want and do not want to be given. For example, you may not want to be given a particular drug again because of its side effects. Your healthcare team should discuss your instructions with you and they can help you to write them. An advocate may also help you with this. You should be given a copy of the instructions and your GP and psychiatrist should also have a copy. If you agree, your healthcare team can also give a copy to your family, carers or significant others. Your instructions may be overridden if you are being treated under the Mental Health Act, although healthcare professionals should only do this in special circumstances and when they believe it is in your best interests. You should be given an explanation about why it was necessary to override your instructions, should this occur.

Decisions about your care if you are under 16

If you are under 16 and your healthcare team is sure that you understand a test or treatment that you are being offered, you will be able to decide on your own whether to have it. You can always involve your parents or another person with parental responsibility (someone who is responsible for looking after you) if you wish, and your healthcare team will encourage them to support you. If you decide to have the test or treatment, you will be asked to give 'informed consent' (see your care).

If your healthcare team is not sure you understand a test or treatment, one of your parents or a person with parental responsibility will be asked to give informed consent for you to have the test or treatment. In an emergency, if one of your parents or the person with parental responsibility for you cannot be contacted, healthcare professionals may give treatment immediately when it is in your best interests.

Questions about being treated under the Mental Health Act

Why have I been detained under the Mental Health Act?
Do I have the right to refuse treatment?
Do I have the right to an advocate?
Do I have to go to hospital?
How long will I have to stay in hospital?
Can I leave the ward if I want to?
How can I appeal against being treated under the Mental Health Act?