WHO and UN call to end human rights abuses in mental health care

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Ending coercive practices in mental health – such as involuntary detention, forced treatment, seclusion and restraints – is essential in order to respect the right to make decisions about one’s own health care and treatment choices.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights (UN) have jointly released a new report called “Mental health, human rights and legislation: guidance and practice”.

The aim of the report is to support countries like Australia to reform laws to end human rights abuses and increase access to quality mental health care.

According to the report, human rights abuses and coercive practices in mental health care, supported by existing legislation and policies, are still common.

Involuntary hospitalization and treatment, dirty living conditions and physical, psychological, and emotional abuse characterise many mental health services across the world.

If you need support, please contact:

  • Lifeline 13 11 14
  • Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636

 

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