Escapes or absconding from secure healthcare units have different characteristics, but may best be prevented by convergent strategies. Relational security is likely to be as important for foiling plans for the former as it is for reducing boredom, building strong family support and managing substance misuse in the latter.

PurposeThis article aims to explore whether the behaviour displayed during the UK Riots in 2011 justifies a label of “sickness” or a psychiatric diagnosis, and if so, is there a role for the medical profession in treating this “sickness”?Design/methodology/approachThe article is structured in four sections. The first two sections focus on the use of illness as a metaphor and the spread of “sickness” in society. The third and fourth sections examine the role of mental health professionals in diagnosing bad behaviour and the use of a medical model to offer a “cure”.FindingsThe article highlights the implications of labelling behaviour as “sick”. It recognises the role that mental health professionals can play in diagnosing and treating certain behaviours and the importance of understanding behaviour in its wider context.Practical implicationsAdoption of a mental health framework when evaluating the riots and consideration of the use of mental health services for some of those involved are considered.Originality/valueThis article offers a medical perspective when assessing the cause and management of the UK riots.