This may take place in a clinic or hospital setting. Being referred to a hospital doesn’t always mean you’ll have to stay in hospital. Visiting a hospital can help you to get the support to make sure you’re safe and get treatment to feel better (106). Being sectioned is when a person is kept in hospital for mental health treatment and support through a law called the Mental Health Act 1983. You will only be sectioned if you are very unwell and doctors are worried that you may harm yourself or someone else. Being sectioned is different to being an informal patient, which is when you voluntarily stay in hospital (121). Fears about treatment and medication The Mental Health Act 1983 Code of Practice says that, as a young person, you have the right to receive the least restrictive treatment possible. It also says you should receive clear and detailed information about your care and treatment, explained in a way you understand and in an age-appropriate format (122). If you are a young person aged 16 and over, you are entitled to consent to your own treatment. This can only be overruled in exceptional circumstances. Young people under the age of 16 can make decisions about their treatment if they’re believed to have enough intelligence and competence to understand what is involved. This is known as being ‘Gillick competent’. Otherwise, someone with parental responsibility can consent for them (123). Respect the young person’s decision If the young person still doesn’t want professional help after you have explored their reasons with them, let them know that if they change their mind in the future they can contact you. You could also encourage other supports, such as self-help strategies. You must respect the young person’s right not to seek help unless you believe that they are at risk of harming themselves or others. The UN Convention of The Child declares that guidance and direction for children must be given in a way that recognises the
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