Right to Treatment and Right to Refuse Treatment Laws

The Right to Treatment ensures that individuals receiving mental health care are given appropriate, effective, and humane treatment. It protects patients from neglect and mandates that facilities provide necessary care. Conversely, the Right to Refuse Treatment allows patients to decline specific treatments, even if mental illness affects their decision-making. This right respects personal autonomy and acknowledges that individuals should have a say in their care. Together, these rights balance the need for effective mental health treatment with respect for personal choice and freedom.