Confidentiality and Privacy Laws

Confidentiality and privacy laws in mental health protect patients’ sensitive information, ensuring that what is shared with mental health professionals remains private. These laws, like HIPAA in the U.S., restrict how personal health information can be used or disclosed without consent. They ensure that patients can seek help without fear that their details will be shared with employers, family, or others. Exceptions exist, such as when there is a risk of harm to oneself or others, but the general principle is to foster trust and protect individuals’ dignity and rights to control their personal information.