The detention of voluntary and involuntary patients in mental health facilities: the ethical considerations

Abstract

It has been estimated that one in four people will experience some form of mental ill-health in their lifetime.1 This can range from feelings of anxiety, to depression, to more severe mental health problems, such as psychosis. Most people can be treated in the community by their GP or other mental health professional. However, some people will require more intensive treatment, including admission to a psychiatric hospital. Many people will consent to hospitalisation, while others may not wish to be admitted and may be detained involuntarily. A third group of people may appear to be satisfied with their treatment plan and although deemed “voluntary” may, in reality, lack the decision-making capacity to provide explicit consent.