Voluntary+Patients

=__Voluntary Patients__=

Voluntary Institutionalisation occurs when a person admits themselves to an institution and agrees to be hospitalised for treatment which they are aware they need to receive. When a patient voluntary institutionalises themselves, they gain the access to leaving at their own discretion, although it is possible for the hospital to detain them further if they meet the requirements for such admission into a mental health institution under the //Mental// //Health Act 1990 (NSW).// Under the //Mental// //Health Act 1990 (NSW),// institutions are only required to admit those who are either suicidal and/or homicidal.

One of the problems faced by voluntary patients is not being detained against their will, rather the lack of space in the hospitals, and shortages of beds available. This shortage reflects on the government, and their role to cater adequately for the needs of the mentally ill who require treatment. This is shown in the findings of the Burdekin report, which can be viewed at http://www.hreoc.gov.au/disability_rights/inquiries/mental/Volume%201.txt. The findings included :

//persons suffering from metal illness experience great difficulty in being accepted for treatment ... on their own assessment of their mental condition. Chronic suffers know the signs of impending crisis but are unable to persuade those in control of admissions that they are unwell enough to be admitted ...//

These findings show that due to the crisis of lack or space within mental institutions, many voluntary patients are being declined. This may cause a worsening in their condition, and possibly even death.