Going into treatment for mental health issues can be an overwhelming experience, especially if it’s your first time. It’s easy to feel like you have no control. Fortunately, there are laws in place to ensure that you are the one in control of your treatment. Knowing your mental health rights is an important step in any treatment journey and one that we encourage at Avalon Malibu.
Why It’s Important to Know Your Rights
Understanding your mental health rights is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, awareness of your rights promotes informed decision-making. When you understand your right to access information about your diagnosis, treatment options, and potential risks, you can make choices that align with your preferences and values. This informed consent is a cornerstone of patient-centered care, which we champion at Avalon Malibu.
Secondly, advocating for yourself becomes more straightforward when you are aware of your rights. You can confidently address concerns, seek second opinions, and access support services. This empowerment is vital in navigating the mental health care system. You can ensure that your voice is heard and your needs are met.
Ultimately, understanding your mental health rights is fundamental to achieving better health outcomes, fostering a sense of control, and ensuring you receive the highest standard of care possible.
Your Five Basic Mental Health Rights
According to the Department of Health Care Services, there are five basic rights that every person has when it comes to mental health treatment. These are rights that are protected under law and should not be infringed upon by any treatment facility or staff. It’s important to understand that infringement on these rights is illegal and can be followed up with legal action. Your five basic rights are:
Access to care- This right ensures that everyone has access to mental health care without undue barriers. This includes availability of appointments, affordability, and accessibility regardless of location or socioeconomic status. Everyone has the right to receive timely and appropriate mental health support and treatment.
Freedom and inclusion- This right protects you from being treated with discrimination. You must be allowed to participate fully in community life without prejudice. That means that individuals with mental health conditions should have the same opportunities and rights as others, be free from stigma, and be able to live and be treated in supportive environments.
Protection and safety- This right guarantees that individuals receiving mental health care are safeguarded from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It guarantees safe treatment environments, respectful interactions, and appropriate interventions.
Privacy- The right to privacy in mental health care involves the confidentiality of personal health information. Patients have the right to control who accesses their medical records and to expect that their treatment details will be kept secure. This cultivates trust and encourages openness in seeking and receiving care.
Communication and informed consent- This right ensures that patients are fully informed about their treatment options and can actively participate in decisions about their care. Healthcare providers should be clear and transparent in their communication. Staff should always receive explicit consent from patients before initiating any treatment, respecting their autonomy and preferences.
At Avalon Malibu, we believe in educating people about their mental health rights because we strive to create an empowering and safe environment for our clients. Our resident advocates can help you understand your rights so that you can get the best treatment outcome possible. This is just one of the ways that we put our clients first. If you’re ready to take the next step toward mental health treatment or continue your healing journey, give us a call at (844) 857-5992.
