British Columbia's Mental Health Act allows us to admit and treat people with serious mental health issues who are a risk to themselves and/or others. People who are certified under the Mental Health Act can be treated involuntarily for a mental disorder.
Currently, we have two facilities at which we are permitted to treat people who are certified under the Mental Health Act: The Forensic Psychiatric Hospital and the
Red Fish Healing Centre for Mental Health and Addiction.
Someone who is certified under the Mental Health Act can receive treatment for a mental disorder involuntarily, or against their will. Typically, people are certified only as a last resort. To be certified for involuntary mental health treatment, a person must meet four requirements:
- Has a mental health disorder that seriously impairs their ability to live in the community
- Requires psychiatric treatment in a designated facility
- Requires care and supervision to prevent deterioration or protect themselves or others
- Cannot safely or adequately be treated in a community-based facility
Only medical doctors can certify people, and only after seeing and assessing them. The courts or police can assist by apprehending or transporting someone to an involuntary mental health assessment, but only a physician can provide the assessment.
Yes. A mental health certification can be appealed by British Columbia's Mental Health Review Board. Learn more on the
Mental Health Review Board's website.
Learn more about the
Mental Health Act.
