The principles are universal but specifics vary by country.
- Right to Access Care
Every individual has the right to access quality mental health care services.
Services should be available, accessible, acceptable, and of good quality.
- Right to Informed Consent
Patients have the right to be informed about any treatment proposed.
No treatment should be given without informed consent, except in specific emergency situations.
- Right to Respect and Dignity
Individuals with mental health conditions should be treated with respect and dignity.
They should not be discriminated against based on their mental health status.
- Right to Confidentiality
Personal health and medical data should remain confidential unless consent for disclosure is provided.
- Right to Non-Discrimination
Equal access to services and care without discrimination based on race, gender, economic status, or any other factor.
- Right to Participation in Community Life
Individuals with mental health conditions have the right to live, work, and participate fully in the community.
- Right to Live Free from Abuse
Protection from physical, mental, or any form of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
- Right to Complaints and Appeals
The right to file complaints or appeals about their care or treatment.
- Right to Advocacy
Access to advocates who can represent their interests and rights.
- Right to Information
Access to information about their condition, rights, and available services.
- Right to Autonomy and Independence
The right to make decisions about one’s life, including health decisions.
- Right to Periodic Review
Regular reviews of the person’s condition and treatment to ensure appropriateness and relevance.
- Protection from Involuntary Treatment and Confinement
Individuals should not be involuntarily confined or treated unless it’s a last resort for their safety or the safety of others, and due legal processes are followed.