Laws, values & ethics: Overview
There are four major topics in this theme: the mental health act, mental status, early intervention and ethical issues/confidentiality. Through these we look at legislation governing the mental health sector and importance of an accurate evaluation of a person’s mental health status. Early intervention plays a vital role in the health outcomes for individuals with a mental health problem; this model will be explored. Values, ethics and confidentiality are encompassed in all areas of health care; issues pertinent to the mental health area will be explored in this theme.
Mental health act
We look at the legislation governing the Mental Health Act and the concepts of informed consent and least restrictive environment. The basic rights as set out by the World Health Organisation are explored and compared with Australian legislation.
Mental status
In this topic we explore the need for a comprehensive mental health assessment. You will be given the opportunity to discuss the process of the mental health status examination and then apply this knowledge to a case study.
Early intervention
Early intervention is a relatively new concept and links in with primary prevention and health promotion. It has been found that early recognition and treatment of mental illnesses has a positive impact on the long-term outcome for the person with the illness. These issues will be explored and a case study is provided to link theory to practice.
Ethical issues/confidentiality
All areas of health care are governed by legal and ethical requirements. All health care workers are governed by a code of practice and registering bodies. Mental health workers are required to practice according to the national practice standards for the mental health workforce. In this topic we will examine the national standards and look at specific ethical problems associated with confidentiality in the mental health sector.