The UAE government has introduced a new law to protect the rights of people dealing with mental health issues. This law ensures that individuals receive the best possible care for both their physical and mental well-being.
What Does The Law Sate
As per the new law, mental health services can only be provided by licensed professionals. Specific protections have been added for minors, and each emirate will have committees to monitor and address concerns.
Main Goal Of The Law
The key goal is to improve the relationship between psychiatric patients and everyone involved in their care, provide quality healthcare, and safeguard the rights and dignity of these patients. The law also updates the definitions of 'mental health' and 'psychiatric patient' based on the latest practices.
Patients now have the right to understand their rights within mental health facilities, file complaints if needed, and keep their jobs without facing restrictions or exploitation.
Furthermore, the law introduces a clear process for patient discharge, ensuring access to medical insurance, education, and recreational activities. Patients can also choose representatives to speak on their behalf. The law guarantees access to psychotherapy and psychiatric medication, with treatment plans fully explained.
The law also includes regulations for voluntary admission related to substance abuse treatment and outlines responsibilities for mental health establishments.