Sectioning
What does it mean if a young person is sectioned?
When a young person is sectioned it means their behaviour or thoughts have shown signs of extreme distress and they might be at risk of hurting themselves or others.
This is carried out under the Mental Health Act and usually means the young person is legally bound to stay in a Child and Adolescent In-Patient Unit for a temporary period.
A section is designed to keep a young person experiencing acute mental distress safe.
This process involves an assessment of the young person’s mental health needs. Treatment depends on the outcome of the assessment.
For more information call the Parents Information Service.
