How the 136 Mental Health Act can Improve Care for Individuals in Crisis
The 136 Mental Health Act is a section that allows for the detainment of individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis and are believed to be in immediate danger to themselves or others. This section has been in place for many years but has recently been revised to better support those in crisis and their families.
What is the 136 Mental Health Act?
The 136 Mental Health Act is a section of the Mental Health Act that allows for the temporary detainment of individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis and are believed to be in immediate danger to themselves or others. This section gives police officers the power to detain an individual and take them to a place of safety, such as a hospital or police station, where they can receive a mental health assessment.
Changes to the 136 Mental Health Act
The revisions to the 136 Mental Health Act aim to improve the care and treatment of individuals who are in crisis. One significant change is that police officers are no longer the only professionals who can detain an individual under section 136. Now, mental health professionals can also detain an individual if they believe it is necessary.
Additionally, the maximum time an individual can be detained under section 136 has been reduced from 72 hours to 24 hours. This change aims to reduce the trauma and distress caused by being detained for a prolonged period.
Benefits of the Revised 136 Mental Health Act
The revisions to section 136 of the Mental Health Act have several benefits. Firstly, by allowing mental health professionals to detain individuals, the clarity of the act has been improved. This should help reduce confusion and ensure that individuals receive appropriate care.
Secondly, the reduction of the maximum detention period should help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety caused by being detained. This change should also provide incentives for those responsible for providing care to work proactively to offer care that is timely and effective.
Lastly, the revised 136 Mental Health Act helps put the emphasis back on the individual and their journey towards recovery. It offers a way to provide timely and appropriate care that prioritizes the individual’s needs and privacy.
Conclusion
The revisions made to section 136 of the Mental Health Act reflect a continued commitment by healthcare providers to provide better care and support for individuals facing mental health difficulties and their families. These changes are intended to improve the outcomes and experiences for people in crisis and ensure effective, comfortable treatment and support. It’s important for individuals, families, and healthcare providers to understand the revised act and to use it in a way that enhances care delivery.
