An Introduction to the Mental Health Act

Course Overview

The current definition of mental disorder as amended by the 2007 Act is 'any disorder or disability of the mind'. Research undertaken by the charity 'Rethink' has found that as many as 1 in 4 of the UK population will experience mental illness or disorder at some point in their lives.

The 1983 Act remains the starting point regarding the definition of mental disorder.

This session will introduce and examine the main sections of the Act, for not only those who experience a mental disorder but also for those who provide care and representation.

Topics considered include:

• The definition of mental disorder
• Types of disorder
• Symptoms
• Roles and Functions under the Act
• Appropriate Treatment
• Types of medical treatment and the question of consent, alongside other safeguards
• Consent to treatment and safeguards
• Admissions and compulsory detention admissions
• Criminal detention under the Act
• Power of higher Courts to direct hospital admission