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Latest news on New Mental Health Act

ferganoid | 15.07.2002 13:20

“Mental disorder” is defined as “any disability or disorder of mind or brain which results in impairment or disturbance of mental functioning.” In contrast to the current act, there are no specific exclusion criteria. The broad definition of mental disorder not only means that dangerous people with severe personality disorder are included, but it also raises the possibility of compulsory treatment for sexual deviancy and dependence on alcohol or drugs.

The draft bill makes provision for treatment without consent. The explanatory notes state that although such treatment does breach the physical integrity, the government’s view is that it can be justified under the European Convention on Human Rights Article 8(2) on the basis that the interference is in accordance with the law, is proportionate, and is in the interests of public safety or to protect health or moral standards.12 As a psychiatrist I am prepared to make judgments about a patient’s health and the safety of others, but not moral standards.

ferganoid
- e-mail: ferganoid@yahoo.co.uk
- Homepage: http://www.continue.to/dspd

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  1. DSPS Order Bill — ferganoid
  2. The pretext of Mental Health will be used — W S Derfty