Townsend criteria

The Townsend criteria are a set of guidelines used in the field of psychiatry to assess whether a person's life circumstances justify a need for mental health treatment. These criteria consider factors such as the individual's personal history, their ability to cope with daily life, and any potential risks to themselves or others. Essentially, these criteria help professionals determine if someone is experiencing distress or challenges that may benefit from support or intervention, ensuring that care is provided based on the individual’s specific situation and needs.