If you're concerned about a loved one's mental health and believe they need urgent help, you can get them sectioned under the Mental Health Act. It involves a few key stages, from requesting an assessment to understanding legal rights and hospital detention. 

What does being sectioned mean? 

Being sectioned is when someone is detained in hospital under the Mental Health Act, usually against their will, and happens when someone is considered a danger to themselves or others.  

Learn more about the Mental Health Act here. 

Requesting a Mental Health Act Assessment 

If you are the nearest relative of someone experiencing severe mental health issues, you have the right to request a Mental Health Act assessment.  

Nearest relative is a legal term in the Mental Health Act and does not mean next of kin. You cannot choose your nearest relative, and the law dictates who they are based on a list from partners, children, and parents to siblings, grandparents and others. Learn more about nearest relatives here.  

The Mental Health Assessment will decide if your loved one should be detained in a hospital for treatment. The decision by mental health professionals, such as doctors and Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs), who will assess your loved one’s condition and the potential risks to themselves or others. 

Role of the nearest relative 

As well as the right to request an assessment, the nearest relative can apply for a loved one to be discharged from the Mental Health Act. But the final decision rests with the mental health professionals and doctors involved in the assessment.  

What to do if you are not the nearest relative 

If you are not the nearest relative, you can still take action to help your loved one. Contact NHS urgent mental health services or the local community mental health team to express your concerns and seek help.  

In an emergency, you can call emergency services for immediate support. You will be asked to provide information about your loved one's behaviour, mental health history, and any immediate risks. 

The decision to detain 

The decision to section someone is never taken lightly and only happens after a full assessment of the person's needs and risks. Mental health professionals will consider all available information and determine if hospital treatment is necessary. 

Hospital detention 

Once sectioned, your loved one may be detained in a hospital for assessment and treatment. This is to protect their rights and dignity while ensuring they receive the necessary care.  

Support is available for families and carers throughout the process, and organisations like Rethink Mental Illness can provide guidance and information.