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It’s fair to say that there’s a stigma attached to being sectioned. The way it’s often portrayed by the likes of TV and film paints this stereotype that has cast a shadow over mental health for many, many years. But there could come a point in your life where you may have to make the choice as to whether to section a family member or not.
It is possible under the Mental Health Act 1983 to do this, but it isn’t a choice you take lightly and it can be one of the most difficult decisions you ever have to make. However, it could also be a necessary one.
Understanding what “sectioning” is, is a good place to start. So, if it’s something you’re considering, here’s all you need to know…
What Does Being Sectioned Mean?
Sectioning is basically the legal act of detaining and admitting someone to a hospital or mental health facility for their own safety or the safety of others. It’s a decision that’s made under either Section 2 or Section 3 of the Mental Health Act.
This will allow a person to be detained for assessment for up to 28 days (Section 2) or detained for treatment up to six months, with the ability to renew if required (Section 3).
A person can only be sectioned if the following applies:
- They have a mental health disorder severe enough to require hospitalisation.
- They pose a risk to themselves (e.g., self-harm, suicide) or others.
- They need urgent care and are unwilling or unable to consent to hospital admission voluntarily.
Your Role as a Family Member
As a family member, you could be directly involved in the process of sectioning someone, particularly if you are among those at a risk or have noticed behaviours or symptoms that suggest a serious decline in your loved one’s mental health. It isn’t a decision you’ll make alone though and you’ll collaborate with healthcare professionals, nurses, social workers and psychiatrists to make the right decision for your loved one.
You can make a formal request for assessment if your loved one meets the criteria and can do so by either contacting their GP, a mental health crisis team or social services. The decision is then made by an approved mental health professional.
Is It OK to Section a Family Member?
The decision to section someone is always ethically complex. While it can feel like a betrayal of trust, it is important to recognise that sectioning is often a necessary step to ensure safety and provide access to appropriate care.
Why Sectioning May Be Necessary
- Safety First: If your family member is a danger to themselves or others, sectioning may prevent harm. This includes risks of self-harm, suicide, or aggressive behaviour stemming from their condition.
- Access to Treatment: Some mental health conditions impair judgment or insight, meaning the person may not realise they need help. Sectioning ensures they receive the treatment they might otherwise refuse.
- Legal Protections: The Mental Health Act is designed to balance individual rights with public safety, ensuring that detention is only used when strictly necessary and with safeguards in place.
Emotional and Ethical Challenges
- Feelings of Guilt: Family members often feel guilt, fearing they are betraying their loved one’s trust. It is essential to remember that your decision comes from a place of care and concern.
- Stigma: Despite growing awareness, mental health stigma remains. Reassure yourself and others that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Temporary Loss of Autonomy: Sectioning involves overriding someone’s consent, which can feel invasive. However, in severe cases, this may be the only way to save a life or prevent further deterioration.
What Happens After Sectioning?
Once sectioned, your family member will be assessed and treated in a hospital setting. The focus is on stabilising their condition, addressing symptoms, and creating a treatment plan for recovery.
As a family member, you can play a supportive role by:
- Staying Involved: Attend care meetings and provide information about their history, behaviours, and preferences.
- Offering Emotional Support: Visiting your loved one and maintaining communication helps them feel connected.
- Educating Yourself: Understanding their condition and treatment options equips you to provide informed support.
Alternatives to Sectioning
If possible, sectioning is worth avoiding and it is really a last resort to try and help your loved one’s mental health improve. To begin with you should:
- Encouraging your loved one to seek help voluntarily.
- Use community-based mental health services.
- Apply crisis intervention through home treatment teams.
If this doesn’t work, then it may be time to consider sectioning to help your loved one get their life back on track. It can be a challenging period for all, but you should remind yourself that it is for the benefit of everyone and in the long run will certainly prove that.