England's new Mental Health Act represents law catching up with science: a commentary on Peter Lepping's ethical analysis of the new mental health legislation in England and Wales
2007
England's New Mental Health Act: A Commentary
Commentary
Author Information
Author(s): Anthony Maden
Primary Institution: The Paddock Centre, Crowthorne, Berks RG45 7EG, UK
Conclusion
The new Mental Health Act reflects advancements in understanding the link between mental illness and violence, aiming to improve patient care and public safety.
Supporting Evidence
- Homicides by the mentally ill account for 5–10% of all killings in England and Wales.
- About half of all patients with schizophrenia discontinue medication within twelve months.
- The best way to understand the new Mental Health Bill is as a further stage in the process that began with the death of Jonathan Zito.
- Recent research shows that non-compliance with treatment in the community is an important cause of tragedies.
Takeaway
This article talks about how new laws for mental health are trying to keep people safe while also helping those who are sick. It shows that understanding mental health has changed a lot over the years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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