The Mental Health Act 1983 defines ‘mental disorder’ as any disorder or disability of the mind. A person can be detained in hospital under the Mental Health Act or, alternatively, they can be allowed to remain at home with certain rules. This policy is based upon the contents of the Mental Health Act 1983 (as amended in 2007) and the Mental Health Act Code of Practice. The Mental Health Act confirms:

• when treatment can be provided against a person’s wishes
• when a person can be held in hospital for assessment or treatment of a mental disorder
• what a person’s rights are.