Human rights in psychiatric practice: an overview for clinicians

Abstract

SummaryMatters relating to human rights arise in almost every area of psychiatric practice. Although some statements of rights are non-binding declarations (e.g. the United Nations' Principles for the Protection of Persons with Mental Illness and the Improvement of Mental Health Care), others are legally binding (e.g. the European Convention on Human Rights) and actively shape national laws. Persons with mental illness commonly experience violations of rights, including their economic and social rights. Psychiatrists can promote human rights through high-quality, evidence-based clinical practice; patient-centred service management; social awareness and engagement; and international activism to enhance protection and promotion of the rights of people with mental illnesses at global level.

Nurses’ perspectives on human rights when coercion is used in psychiatry: a systematic review protocol of qualitative evidence

“…Nurses, like many health professionals, have an important responsibility to protect, recognize, and defend the rights of people with mental health issues, including human rights [18, 19]. However, the evidence suggests that many health professionals sometimes exceed the limits imposed by law [20], may underestimate informal coercion [21], and should be educated about its use and potential adverse effects given its estimated prevalence in psychiatric settings between 29 and 59% [22].…”