You should only be sectioned if: you need to be assessed or treated for your mental health problem. your health would be at risk of getting worse if you did not get treatment. your safety or someone else's safety would be at risk if you did not get treatment.

What are the consequences of being sectioned?

What happens when you're sectioned? In most cases, you will be admitted to hospital very soon after your assessment (for most sections, it legally needs to be within 14 days). This will normally be by ambulance. Once there, you will have your rights explained to you and will be given a copy to keep.

Can you refuse to be sectioned?

Under Section 2, you can't refuse treatment. However some treatments can't be given to you without your consent unless certain criteria are met.